Mega Ichthyosaur Discovered in England: Rewriting Prehistoric Record
April 18, 2024A new species of giant ichthyosaur, Ichthyotitan severnensis, has been identified in Somerset, England.
The discovery includes a massive jawbone, suggesting the creature was over 82 feet long.
Ichthyotitan severnensis lived approximately 202 million years ago and was still growing at its time of death.
The specimen provides new insights into the marine ecosystem before a major extinction event and the evolutionary history of marine reptiles.
The jawbone will be displayed at the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, with hopes for more discoveries to expand knowledge on ancient sea creatures.
This ichthyosaur surpasses the previous record-holder for the largest marine reptile, Shonisaurus sikanniensis.
Summary based on 13 sources
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Sources
The New York Times • Apr 17, 2024
An 11-Year-Old Girl’s Fossil Find Is the Largest Known Ocean ReptileThe New York Times • Apr 17, 2024
An 11-Year-Old Girl’s Fossil Find Is the Largest Known Ocean ReptileScience • Apr 17, 2024
This 80-foot-long sea monster was the killer whale of its timeThe Independent • Apr 17, 2024
Scientists identify what may be the largest known marine reptile