Scientists discover youngest known Temnodontosaurus ichthyosaur fossil in Germany
Updated
Updated · Times Now · Apr 29
Scientists discover youngest known Temnodontosaurus ichthyosaur fossil in Germany
8 articles · Updated · Times Now · Apr 29
Researchers unearthed the 180-million-year-old fossil at the Mistelgau clay pit in northern Germany, led by SNSB paleontologist Dr. Ulrike Albert.
The fossil, showing evidence of healed injuries and rare gastroliths, indicates Temnodontosaurus survived longer in the Southwest German Basin than previously believed.
This discovery challenges previous timelines for the genus and highlights convergent evolution, as the marine reptile’s dolphin-like shape evolved independently from mammals.
This fossil rewrites history, but for how much longer did these giant sea dragons actually rule the seas?
It looked like a dolphin but was a reptile. How many other 'impostors' are in the fossil record?
What unique 'microbial tomb' perfectly preserved this 180-million-year-old fossil in three dimensions?
How did a sea predator with a broken jaw survive long enough for its teeth to wear down?
What other prehistoric secrets lie buried in Germany's Mistelgau clay pit?