Scientists Unveil Xiphodracon, a Rare Jurassic Sea Dragon from Britain
A remarkable fossil discovery on England's Jurassic Coast has shed new light on ancient reptiles that once dominated Earth's oceans.
A nearly complete skeleton of a previously unknown ichthyosaur species has been identified as Xiphodracon goldencapensis, nicknamed the "Sword Dragon of Dorset."
Ichthyosaurs were marine reptiles that lived alongside dinosaurs but ruled the seas, resembling modern dolphins in body shape, with streamlined forms, large eyes, and long snouts filled with sharp teeth.
The newly described Xiphodracon lived around 193 to 184 million years ago during the Pliensbachian stage of the Early Jurassic.
The find is the only known example of its kind and offers a rare glimpse into a mysterious period of ichthyosaur evolution.
Author's summary: Xiphodracon discovery sheds light on ancient sea dragons.