Ancient Marine Reptile from the Dinosaur Era Discovered

Recent research has unveiled a new genus of marine reptile from the Jurassic period, identified from a fossil discovered in southern Germany. This ancient creature, measuring over three meters in length, features a notably long neck and swam the oceans during the time of the dinosaurs.

The well-preserved remains of this reptile were initially unearthed more than four decades ago in Baden-Württemberg. However, a team of researchers, including a guest scientist from the Bielefeld Natural History Museum, has now conducted a thorough analysis of the fossil, with their findings published in the scientific journal PeerJ.

According to the researchers, this marine reptile lived approximately 183 million years ago and belongs to the group known as Plesiosauria. These creatures are characterized by their paddle-like limbs, which allowed them to navigate through water efficiently. The Plesiosauria went extinct alongside the dinosaurs around 66 million years ago.

The newly classified species has been named Plesionectes longicollum, which translates to "ancient swimmer with a long neck." The analysis indicates that Plesionectes was an adept swimmer, likely preying on fish in its marine habitat.

The fossil, discovered in 1978 at the important fossil site near Holzmaden, is currently housed in the State Museum of Natural History Stuttgart. While it remains part of the museum's scientific collection, it is accessible to the public only during special events, such as open house days.

Researcher Sven Sachs noted that the long neck of the specimen was evident from the start. The complete skeleton measures 295 centimeters, with the neck accounting for 125 centimeters and the tail measuring 81 centimeters. However, the skeleton has been slightly compressed, and the head is incomplete, suggesting that the living animal would have reached approximately 3.5 meters in length.

In their detailed examination, the researchers identified a unique combination of skeletal features that distinguishes this species from all previously recognized Plesiosaurs. Thus, the classification as both a new species and a new genus is warranted.

This discovery adds an important piece to the puzzle of marine reptile evolution, providing insights into the development of marine ecosystems during a pivotal period in Earth's history. While other researchers had previously examined this fossil, they deemed it too young to classify. However, advancements in understanding skeletal growth phases in Plesiosaurs have enhanced the ability to discern anatomical characteristics that remain stable, allowing for more accurate classification.

Numerous fossils have been found in the Holzmaden shale, including specimens of five other Plesiosaur species. This latest find contributes to a deeper understanding of the evolutionary history of marine reptiles during a critical phase of our planet's past.