Introducing the Patagotitan, an intriguing creature from the past! In this blog post, we will explore the history, facts, size, habitat, and classification of this mighty extinct animal. Before we begin our journey into the world of the Patagotitan, let us first mention that our blog already features an article on 155+ animal names, so make sure to check that out as well.
The Patagotitan, also known as the “giant of Patagonia,” existed millions of years ago during the Late Cretaceous period. It holds the title for being one of the largest known animals to have ever roamed the Earth. With a length of about 115 feet and an estimated weight of about 70 tons, this colossal creature surpasses even the size of a modern blue whale!
This magnificent creature lived in what is now known as Argentina, and its habitat was mainly made up of lush forests and open plains. As a herbivorous dinosaur, the Patagotitan fed on plants, using its long neck to reach the leaves and branches high up in the trees. Despite its enormous size, this gentle giant posed no threat to other animals as it peacefully grazed its way through the ancient landscape.
Now that we have introduced you to the fascinating Patagotitan, get ready for an in-depth exploration of its history, mind-boggling size, unique habitat, and its place in the classification of extinct animals. So stay tuned for our upcoming blog post that will take you back in time to uncover the wonders of this incredible creature!
History of Patagotitan
Patagotitan was a giant animal that lived long ago, during the time of the dinosaurs. It roamed the earth about 100 million years ago. This creature was part of a group called sauropods, which were huge, long-necked dinosaurs. Patagotitan was one of the biggest sauropods ever discovered!
Scientists believe that Patagotitan was about 70-85 feet long, which is as long as a basketball court! It weighed around 70 tons, which is as heavy as 10 elephants! Its neck alone was about 40 feet long. Can you imagine having a neck that long?!
Patagotitan had a special body structure that helped it survive. Its bones were both long and thick, which made it very strong. It walked on four legs and had a long tail to help balance its massive body. It also had a small head compared to its body.
We know about Patagotitan because scientists have found its fossils. Fossils are the remains of ancient animals or plants that have turned into rock over time. In 2014, some construction workers in Argentina came across a fossil of this giant dinosaur. It took many years for scientists to carefully dig up and study the bones.
Patagotitan is an important discovery because it helps us understand how these huge dinosaurs lived and evolved. It gives us clues about the Earth’s history and the incredible creatures that once ruled the planet. These fossils are like puzzle pieces that scientists put together to learn more about the past. The discovery of Patagotitan has added to our knowledge of the amazing creatures that roamed the Earth long, long ago.
Importance of Patagotitan
The Patagotitan is a very important animal in our world. It lived millions of years ago and was one of the largest dinosaurs ever discovered. Understanding this amazing creature helps scientists learn more about Earth’s history and how animals have evolved over time.
Firstly, studying the Patagotitan can give us important information about the past. By examining its bones and fossils, scientists can learn what the environment was like when the Patagotitan was alive. They can also discover what other animals and plants existed at that time. This helps us understand how Earth has changed over millions of years and how our planet has become what it is today.
Secondly, the Patagotitan teaches us about the diversity of life on our planet. It belonged to a group of dinosaurs called sauropods, which were known for their long necks and tails. By studying the Patagotitan and its relatives, scientists can understand how these dinosaurs lived and what made them unique. This knowledge can help us appreciate the amazing variety of creatures that have existed throughout history.
In conclusion, the Patagotitan is an important animal because it provides valuable insights into our planet’s past and the diversity of life that has existed. By studying this magnificent dinosaur, scientists can learn about Earth’s history and how different species have adapted and changed over time. It is through discoveries like the Patagotitan that we gain a deeper understanding of our world and the amazing creatures that have inhabited it.
Amazing Facts About Patagotitan
1. Patagotitan was a huge dinosaur that lived about 100 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous Period.
2. It was one of the largest land animals that ever existed, measuring around 69-85 feet long and weighing about 55-77 tons.
3. Patagotitan belongs to a group of dinosaurs called titanosaur, which were plant-eating sauropods with long necks and tails.
4. Its name, Patagotitan, means “giant from Patagonia,” as it was discovered in southern Argentina.
5. The fossil remains of Patagotitan were first found in 2012, and they indicate that this dinosaur had a long neck and tail, a small head, and walked on four legs.
6. Scientists estimate that Patagotitan had a height of about 20 feet at the shoulder, equivalent to a three-story building.
7. Its neck alone could reach lengths of up to 40 feet, allowing it to eat vegetation from treetops.
8. Despite its massive size, Patagotitan had relatively light and hollow bones, similar to other sauropods, to reduce its weight.
9. This dinosaur was herbivorous, meaning it only ate plants. Its teeth were adapted for cropping vegetation rather than chewing.
10. Patagotitan likely traveled in herds, which provided protection against predators and allowed for better access to food sources.
11. The discovery of Patagotitan fossils has helped scientists understand the diversity and evolution of titanosaurs.
12. By studying the size and shape of its bones, scientists can estimate the age and growth patterns of Patagotitan individuals.
13. It is believed that Patagotitan had a relatively slow metabolism, which allowed it to sustain its large size on a plant-based diet.
14. The main predators of Patagotitan may have included large theropods like Tyrannosaurus rex or Giganotosaurus.
15. Patagotitan’s extinction, along with many other dinosaurs, occurred around 65 million years ago, possibly due to a catastrophic event like an asteroid impact, leading to the end of the Cretaceous Period.
Can we keep Patagotitan as our Pet?
The Patagotitan animal was a giant dinosaur that lived long ago. Unfortunately, it is now extinct, which means it no longer exists on our planet. Extinction happens when a species, like the Patagotitan, is unable to survive and reproduce anymore. This could be due to many reasons, such as changes in the environment or natural disasters.
It is important to understand that we cannot keep extinct animals as pets. Extinct means that these animals are completely gone from the Earth. They no longer exist anywhere. Even if we wanted to keep a Patagotitan as a pet, we simply cannot because they no longer roam our world. It might be fun to imagine having such a huge and fascinating creature as a pet, but sadly, it is impossible.
The extinction of the Patagotitan, although sad, is a natural part of life on our planet. It teaches us the importance of taking care of the animals and plants we have today. We must value and protect the living creatures around us, as they are all part of a delicate ecosystem. By appreciating and caring for our present-day animal friends, we can help prevent more extinctions in the future and ensure that the diverse beauty of life continues to thrive.
Size of Patagotitan
Patagotitan, also known as the Patagonian giant, was an enormous animal that lived millions of years ago. It was a dinosaur, and it is considered to be one of the largest creatures to have ever walked on Earth. This giant dinosaur belonged to a group called titanosaur, which were massive, long-necked herbivores.
The size of Patagotitan is mind-boggling. It was estimated to be around 70-85 feet long and weighed about 50-70 tons! Just to put that into perspective, imagine a school bus that is as long as a basketball court and as heavy as 14 elephants! Because of its size, it is believed that Patagotitan had a long, tapering neck and tail, with sturdy legs to support its tremendous weight.
Scientists were able to determine the size of Patagotitan by studying its fossilized bones that were discovered in Argentina. Comparing these fossils to those of other dinosaurs, they were able to make an estimation of its dimensions. It’s incredible to think that such an enormous creature once roamed the Earth!
In conclusion, Patagotitan was an enormous dinosaur that was one of the largest animals to have ever existed. It was around 70-85 feet long and weighed about 50-70 tons, making it as heavy as 14 elephants. Its size was determined by studying its fossilized bones found in Argentina. The Patagotitan is a fascinating example of the incredible diversity of life that once existed on our planet.
Habitat of Patagotitan
The Patagotitan, the biggest dinosaur ever discovered, lived around 100 million years ago in what is now Argentina. It had a habitat that was similar to the area today, with wide open spaces and plains. The climate was warm and humid, with lush vegetation and plenty of water sources like rivers and lakes. The Patagotitan lived in herds, where they would find safety and enough food to survive.
The habitat of the Patagotitan was very important for their survival. The wide open spaces allowed them to roam freely and find food. They had long necks that helped them reach the leaves on tall trees and their sharp teeth were perfect for tearing apart plants. The lush vegetation provided them with an abundance of food, such as leaves, ferns, and shrubs. They would travel to different areas in search of fresh plants to eat.
The warm and humid climate of the Patagotitan’s habitat allowed for the growth of a variety of plants. This provided the dinosaurs with many different options for food. Additionally, the presence of rivers and lakes ensured that there was always enough water for the Patagotitan to drink. These water sources were also home to other animals, which the Patagotitan could hunt if they wanted to. The availability of food and water in their habitat made survival easier for these giant creatures.
In conclusion, the Patagotitan lived in a habitat with wide open spaces, lush vegetation, and ample water sources. These conditions allowed them to find the necessary food and water to survive. Living in herds, they roamed freely in search of different plants to eat and could also hunt other animals if needed. The warm and humid climate of their habitat supported the growth of various plants, making food plentiful. The Patagotitan’s habitat was ideal for their survival and thrived in the conditions it provided.
Evolution of Patagotitan
Patagotitan was not always as big as it is today. In fact, it had humble beginnings millions of years ago. The evolution of Patagotitan can be traced back to its ancestors, known as sauropods. These were long-necked and long-tailed dinosaurs that lived on Earth during the Mesozoic Era. Over time, these dinosaurs gradually changed and evolved into the giant Patagotitan we know today.
The first sauropods appeared about 200 million years ago. They were relatively small, measuring about the size of a dog or a cow. As the years went by, sauropods started to grow bigger and bigger. This was mainly due to changes in their environment. They needed to be able to eat more food because there was more competition for resources. Gradually, their bodies adapted to accommodate their increased size.
Patagotitan evolved during the Late Cretaceous period, around 100 million years ago. During this time, it was one of the largest creatures to roam the Earth. It had a long neck and tail, which helped it reach vegetation and balance its massive body. Additionally, its strong legs and powerful muscles allowed it to support its enormous weight.
In summary, Patagotitan’s evolution can be traced back to the smaller sauropods that lived millions of years ago. These dinosaurs gradually grew larger over time, adapting to changes in their environment. Eventually, Patagotitan emerged as one of the largest creatures to have ever existed, with features that allowed it to thrive in its ecosystem.
Classification of Patagotitan
The Patagotitan animal is classified as a species of dinosaur known as a titanosaur. It belongs to the Sauropodomorpha group, which includes some of the largest land animals that ever lived. The Patagotitan is believed to have existed during the Late Cretaceous period, which was about 100 to 95 million years ago.
The Patagotitan was a herbivorous dinosaur, which means it only ate plants. It had a long neck and tail, and its body was gigantic, measuring around 100 feet in length and weighing approximately 70 tons. This makes it one of the largest dinosaurs ever found. It had a small head in proportion to its body and a long neck, which helped it reach vegetation high up in the trees.
Scientists have discovered fossils of the Patagotitan in Patagonia, a region in Argentina. The remains included bones such as vertebrae, limbbones, and parts of the skull, which have provided valuable information about this ancient creature. These fossils have helped experts understand more about the evolution, size, and behavior of this enormous dinosaur.
In conclusion, the Patagotitan is classified as a titanosaur, a type of herbivorous dinosaur that lived around 100 million years ago. It was one of the largest land animals ever discovered, with a body length of around 100 feet and a weight of about 70 tons. Fossils found in Patagonia, Argentina have given scientists important insights into this remarkable creature.
How did Patagotitan Extinct?
Patagotitan was a huge dinosaur that lived millions of years ago. It was one of the biggest animals to ever walk on the Earth. But sadly, like many other dinosaurs, Patagotitan became extinct.
One of the reasons why Patagotitan went extinct is because of a big event called the Cretaceous-Tertiary extinction event. Around 66 million years ago, something terrible happened. Scientists believe that a huge asteroid or comet hit the Earth. This caused a lot of dust and ash to go up into the sky and block the sunlight. Without sunlight, plants couldn’t make food through photosynthesis. And if plants can’t survive, many animals that eat plants also couldn’t survive, including Patagotitan.
Another reason for Patagotitan’s extinction could be climate change. Over a long period of time, the Earth’s climate was changing. It was getting colder and drier. This meant that the areas where Patagotitan used to live were not suitable for them anymore. They couldn’t find enough food or water to survive. The changing climate could also have affected their ability to reproduce and find mates, which ultimately led to their decline.
Additionally, predation could have played a role in the extinction of Patagotitan. Other carnivorous dinosaurs might have been hunting and eating them. As the population of Patagotitan decreased, their predators had less food available. This could have led to a further decline in their numbers until there were no more Patagotitans left.
In conclusion, the extinction of Patagotitan, like many other dinosaurs, was likely caused by a combination of factors. The catastrophic event of the Cretaceous-Tertiary extinction, climate change, and predation all contributed to the decline of these giant creatures. It is truly fascinating to study and learn about these ancient animals and the reasons behind their disappearance from our planet.
Geographical Presence of Patagotitan
Patagotitan is a type of animal found in the region of Patagonia, which is located in South America. Patagonia is a vast area that covers parts of Argentina and Chile, and it is known for its diverse and unique wildlife. The Patagotitan, which is also known as the Patagonian giant, is one of the largest dinosaurs ever discovered, and it roamed this region millions of years ago.
However, Patagotitan is not found in other parts of the world outside of Patagonia. This means that you will not be able to spot this incredible creature in any other continent or country. Its fossils have only been found in Patagonia, indicating that it had a limited geographic range during its existence.
It is fascinating to think about the existence of such enormous creatures in our world’s history, especially in a region as remote and unique as Patagonia. The Patagotitan’s discovery in this particular region highlights the importance of preserving and studying the natural habitats where these incredible animals once lived. By understanding their past, scientists can continue to unravel the mysteries of our planet’s ancient history.
Scientific Name of Patagotitan
Patagotitan was a species of dinosaur alive during the Late Cretaceous period, about 100 million years ago. It falls under the classification of sauropod dinosaurs, which were known for their massive size and long necks. Scientists have given this particular species the scientific name Patagotitan mayorum.
The first part of the scientific name, “Patagotitan,” refers to the region where the fossils of this dinosaur were found. They were discovered in the Patagonia region of Argentina, by a team of paleontologists. The second part of the name, “mayorum,” is an acknowledgment of one of the lead scientists, the Mayo family, who played a significant role in supporting the fieldwork that led to the discovery of Patagotitan.
Patagotitan mayorum is considered to be one of the largest dinosaurs ever known to have existed. It is estimated to have reached a length of about 98 feet (30 meters) and weighed approximately 70 tons. This dinosaur likely had a long neck and tail, and it roamed the Earth alongside other fascinating species during its time.
In summary, Patagotitan mayorum is the scientific name given to an enormous dinosaur that lived around 100 million years ago. It belonged to the group of sauropod dinosaurs and was discovered in the Patagonia region of Argentina. With its massive size and fascinating features, it continues to captivate scientists and inspire awe in people today.
Diet of Patagotitan
The Patagotitan, a huge and mighty animal, had a very unique and interesting diet. These magnificent creatures were herbivores, which means they only ate plants to survive. Can you believe that such a massive creature survived only on tasty plants?
Patagotitan had a special diet filled with different types of plants. Their menu consisted of leaves, fruits, and even tree branches. These towering giants used their long necks and powerful jaws to reach up and grab leaves from the tallest trees. They also ate fruits that fell to the ground, and they could crunch up branches with their big, strong teeth.
To fulfill their enormous appetite, Patagotitans had to eat a lot! They spent most of their day grazing and searching for food. Imagine having to eat all day long just to satisfy your hunger. Since plants don’t contain much nutrition, these huge animals had to eat huge amounts of food to stay strong and healthy. Their plant-based diet gave them all the energy they needed to roam around and live their gigantic lives.
Locomotion of Patagotitan
The Patagotitan, a massive animal, moved using a special kind of locomotion. Its long and strong legs helped it walk on land. With each step, its legs would swing forward and backward in a repeating pattern. As it walked, the Patagotitan would move one leg at a time, creating a consistent rhythm.
The Patagotitan’s legs were like pillars holding up its enormous body while it moved around. It had to be careful not to trip or stumble due to its great size. Although it moved slowly, its locomotion allowed it to cover long distances and reach its food sources. By using this unique way of walking, the Patagotitan was able to explore and survive in its environment.
Social and Sexual Behaviour of Patagotitan
The Patagotitan animal has some interesting social behavior. These huge creatures lived together in groups called herds. Just like how you have a group of friends in school, Patagotitans also had their friends. They liked to stay close with their friends and family members.
When Patagotitans were in a herd, they would sometimes communicate with each other. They made low rumbling sounds to talk. It was like they were having a conversation, just like you do with your friends. This helped them stay connected and share information.
Now let’s talk about their sexual behavior. Like many other animals, Patagotitans had a special way to find mates. The male Patagotitans would often fight with each other to impress the female Patagotitans. They would use their long necks and powerful tails to compete and show off their strength. The strongest male would win the female’s attention and they would become a couple.
In summary, Patagotitans were social creatures that liked to be together in herds and communicate with each other. They also had a specific way of finding mates through competition. The strongest male would earn the attention of the female. These behaviors helped them live together and continue their species.
Reproduction and Lifecycle of Patagotitan
Patagotitan is an enormous dinosaur that lived millions of years ago. It had a fascinating reproduction and life cycle. Let’s explore more about it!
To begin with, Patagotitan began its life as an egg. Just like birds, this dinosaur laid eggs. These eggs were probably very large, about 1.5 feet in diameter. The mother Patagotitan would lay these eggs in a nest she had carefully prepared. She would use leaves, branches, and other materials to create a warm and safe environment for her eggs. The eggs would then hatch, and little baby Patagotitans would emerge.
As the baby Patagotitans grew, they would need lots of food to fuel their growth. They were likely herbivores, which means they ate plants. They would spend their days munching on leaves, branches, and any other plant they could find. As they ate more and more, they would grow bigger and bigger. It’s estimated that it took around 30 years for a Patagotitan to reach its full adult size.
Once fully grown, the adult Patagotitans would mate and reproduce. The males and females would come together to lay new eggs, continuing the cycle of life. Interestingly, it’s believed that Patagotitans lived in herds, which means they would travel and live in groups. This allowed them to protect each other and their young from predators.
In conclusion, Patagotitan had a remarkable reproduction and life cycle. From hatching from eggs to growing into enormous adults, these dinosaurs followed a similar pattern to many other animals. By living in herds, they ensured the safety of their young and built a strong community. Despite being extinct, we can still learn much about these incredible creatures by studying their fossils.
Threats to Patagotitan
Patagotitan, a large animal that once roamed the Earth, faces several threats that put its survival at risk. One of the main threats is habitat loss. As humans continue to expand cities, cut down forests, and convert land for agriculture, the home of the Patagotitan is shrinking. Without proper habitat, these animals struggle to find food and shelter, which can lead to a decline in their population.
Illegal hunting is another significant threat to Patagotitan. Some people hunt these animals for their skin, meat, or other body parts, which are often sold illegally. This hunting disrupts the natural balance of their population and can even lead to their extinction. Authorities are working to combat illegal hunting, but it remains a challenge.
Climate change is also impacting the Patagotitan’s survival. Rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, and extreme weather events can affect the availability of food and water for these animals. Additionally, climate change can disrupt key ecological relationships that the Patagotitan depends on. It is crucial for us to take action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect their habitats to ensure their long-term survival.
In conclusion, the Patagotitan faces threats such as habitat loss, illegal hunting, and climate change. These issues have put this magnificent creature at risk of extinction. It is our responsibility to protect these animals and their habitats to ensure a future where the Patagotitan can continue to thrive. Conservation efforts, such as preserving their habitats, enforcing laws against hunting, and mitigating climate change, are essential to safeguard their existence and the Earth’s biodiversity.
Population of Patagotitan
The population of the Patagotitan animal is not known for sure, as it lived a long time ago. Scientists estimate that there were probably not very many of them. It is difficult to determine the exact number, but an assumed figure is that there may have been only a few hundred or thousand Patagotitans living at a time.
Unfortunately, the Patagotitan is now extinct, which means that there are no more of them living today. Extinction happens when all the members of a certain animal species die out. The exact reasons for the extinction of Patagotitan are not known, but it is believed that environmental changes and competition for resources may have played a role in their disappearance.
It is sad to think that the Patagotitan no longer exists, as it was one of the largest animals to have ever lived. Extinction is a natural process that has happened throughout Earth’s history, with many species coming and going over millions of years. Scientists study extinct animals like Patagotitan to learn more about the past and how life on Earth has changed over time.
Conclusion
Overall, Patagotitan is an incredible creature with a fascinating history and some astonishing facts. This colossal dinosaur lived millions of years ago and was discovered in the Patagonia region of Argentina. With its massive size and long neck, it belongs to a group of dinosaurs called titanosaurians. In fact, Patagotitan is believed to be one of the largest land animals that ever existed!
This incredible beast measured up to a staggering 37 meters long and weighed around 70 tons, making it as heavy as about 10 elephants combined! It walked on four legs and had a long neck that reached high into the sky to help it munch on leaves from tall trees. Patagotitans also had a long whip-like tail that acted as a counterbalance to maintain stability.
Patagotitan inhabited a lush environment with rivers, lakes, and forests, where it would have lived among other fascinating creatures. These included animals such as other dinosaurs, flying reptiles, and giant insects! Despite its massive size, Patagotitan likely had to constantly search for food to sustain its enormous body, as it needed to consume vast amounts of plants every day.
In conclusion, Patagotitan was a magnificent dinosaur that roamed the lands of ancient Patagonia. Its immense size and unique features set it apart as one of the most impressive animals to have ever lived. The discovery and study of Patagotitan provide us with valuable information about the Earth’s past and remind us of the diverse and awe-inspiring creatures that once walked our planet.
Frequently Asked Questions about Patagotitan (FAQ’s)
Q: What is Patagotitan animal?
A: Patagotitan animal, also known as Patagotitan mayorum, is a species of titanosaur, a group of long-necked, herbivorous dinosaurs.
Q: When and where was Patagotitan discovered?
A: Patagotitan was discovered in 2012 in the Patagonia region of Argentina.
Q: How big was Patagotitan?
A: Patagotitan is estimated to have reached lengths of up to 115 feet and weighed around 69 tons, making it one of the largest dinosaurs ever known.
Q: What did Patagotitan eat?
A: Patagotitan was an herbivorous dinosaur, feeding on plants such as ferns, cycads, and conifers.
Q: How long ago did Patagotitan live?
A: Patagotitan lived during the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 98 million years ago.
Q: How do scientists know that Patagotitan was so big?
A: Scientists have used fossil evidence, including bones and teeth, to estimate the size of Patagotitan and compare it to other dinosaur species.
Q: How was Patagotitan similar to other titanosaurs?
A: Patagotitan shared many characteristics with other titanosaurs, such as its long neck and tail, and its herbivorous diet.
Q: Did Patagotitan have any predators?
A: As a large dinosaur, it is believed that Patagotitan did not have many natural predators. However, younger or injured individuals may have been vulnerable to large theropods like Giganotosaurus.
Q: What is the significance of the discovery of Patagotitan?
A: The discovery of Patagotitan provides valuable insights into the diversity and size range of titanosaurs, as well as the ecosystems they inhabited during the Late Cretaceous.
Q: How many Patagotitan fossils have been found?
A: The initial discovery of Patagotitan in Argentina included multiple individuals, with more than 200 fossil bones recovered from the site.
Q: Where can I see Patagotitan fossils?
A: Some of the Patagotitan fossils can be seen in museums, such as the American Museum of Natural History in New York City and the Museo Paleontológico Egidio Feruglio in Argentina.
Q: How long did Patagotitan live?
A: The lifespan of Patagotitan is unknown, but it likely lived for several decades, similar to other large dinosaurs.
Q: How did Patagotitan move with its large size?
A: Patagotitan most likely moved on all fours, using its strong limbs to support its massive body. It is not believed to have been capable of running.
Q: Did Patagotitan have any special adaptations for its large size?
A: Patagotitan had several adaptations to support its immense size, including an elongated neck, muscular limbs, and strong vertebrae to support its weight.
Q: Can Patagotitan be considered the largest dinosaur ever?
A: While Patagotitan is one of the largest dinosaurs discovered, it is difficult to determine definitively if it is the absolute largest, as there may be other undiscovered species of similar or even larger size.
Hi there! I’m Morgan Gutierrez, and I love animals! I work as a Seasonal Animal Care Specialist at Brookfield Zoo and also teach people about animals, which is super fun. I studied at Valparaiso University in Lockport, Illinois, where I learned even more about these amazing creatures.
I’m not just about taking care of animals; I write articles about them, too! I explore and share many interesting animal stories, from cute kittens to giant elephants.
In the past, I’ve worked with veterinarians, helped with research, and even been an Animal Ambassador, bringing animals closer to people. Animals are my passion, and I enjoy helping others learn about them. So, if you ever want to know about animals, feel free to ask. I’ll explain it in a way that’s easy to understand, just like talking to a friend!