Ankylosaurus Logbook Entry

This discovery raises far more questions than it answers.

We've discovered fossilized remains deep within the planet's cave systems before. Small bones, cephalopod shells, even a feather preserved in some substance similar to amber. Fascinating to ponder over, but hardly enough to draw many worthwhile conclusions.

Today, we unearthed the nearly-intact skull and torso of a large reptilian creature. Completely unlike the larger, yellow Lemurian species we see somewhat commonly. 

This one is quadrupedal; sporting a massive shell comprised of fused scales, not unlike that of a turtle. The shell is dotted with numerous large bone scutes, presumably for defense against the predators of its time. Even its neck is armored in a similar manner.

The jaws terminate in a beak-like structure, perfect for foraging plants. Its low stance suggests it would have been browsing for shoots and leaves instead of reaching up to higher branches for fruits or buds.

The tail and rearward half of the spine was not present in this specimen, but based on the information we have from the upper torso, it might have borne similar osteoderms, perhaps ending in a spiked or clubbed structure.

The limbs suggest that the majority of the creature's weight was supported by the forelegs. The strength this implies they would have had in these front limbs might have made them quite capable at digging, as well.

This is absolutely groundbreaking for our research into the fossil history of the planet, but I have one burning question left from its discovery.

I know this creature. I studied it as part of my degree, before the rescue mission. It's a more complete specimen than anything we found back home.

What in the hell was A. magniventris doing on Petrichor?