Paleontology: Dinosaurs
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Abstract on Fossils of Giant Sea Lizard that Ruled the Oceans 66 Million Years Ago Discovered Original source 

Fossils of Giant Sea Lizard that Ruled the Oceans 66 Million Years Ago Discovered

A team of paleontologists has discovered the fossils of a giant sea lizard that ruled the oceans 66 million years ago. The fossils were found in Antarctica and belong to a new species of mosasaur, a group of marine reptiles that lived during the Late Cretaceous period. The discovery sheds new light on the evolution and diversity of these ancient creatures.

What are Mosasaurs?

Mosasaurs were a group of marine reptiles that lived during the Late Cretaceous period, between 98 and 66 million years ago. They were apex predators that ruled the oceans, with some species growing up to 50 feet in length. Mosasaurs had long, streamlined bodies, powerful jaws, and sharp teeth that allowed them to hunt and eat a variety of prey, including fish, squid, and other marine reptiles.

The Discovery

The fossils were discovered in Antarctica by a team of paleontologists led by Dr. Rodrigo Otero from the University of Chile. The team found several bones belonging to a new species of mosasaur, which they named Krimosaurus mnyama. The name "Krimosaurus" means "monster from Krim," which is an old name for Antarctica, while "mnyama" means "black" in Swahili, referring to the dark color of the bones.

The fossils include parts of the skull, jaws, teeth, vertebrae, ribs, and limb bones. Based on their analysis, the researchers estimate that Krimosaurus mnyama was about 33 feet long and weighed around 8 tons. It had a long snout with sharp teeth at the front and back of its jaws, which suggests it was a specialized predator that hunted large prey.

Significance of the Discovery

The discovery of Krimosaurus mnyama sheds new light on the evolution and diversity of mosasaurs during the Late Cretaceous period. It is one of the largest and most complete mosasaur fossils ever found in Antarctica, which was once part of a supercontinent called Gondwana. The discovery also suggests that mosasaurs were able to adapt to different environments and thrive in different parts of the world.

The researchers believe that Krimosaurus mnyama was a top predator in the Antarctic marine ecosystem, which was characterized by cold temperatures, long periods of darkness, and seasonal sea ice. The discovery also provides new insights into the paleobiology and paleoecology of mosasaurs, including their feeding habits, locomotion, and reproductive strategies.

Conclusion

The discovery of Krimosaurus mnyama is a significant contribution to our understanding of the evolution and diversity of mosasaurs during the Late Cretaceous period. It highlights the importance of Antarctica as a source of fossils that can provide new insights into the history of life on Earth. The discovery also underscores the need for continued research and exploration in this remote and challenging region.

FAQs

1. What are mosasaurs?

Mosasaurs were a group of marine reptiles that lived during the Late Cretaceous period, between 98 and 66 million years ago.

2. How big was Krimosaurus mnyama?

Based on their analysis, the researchers estimate that Krimosaurus mnyama was about 33 feet long and weighed around 8 tons.

3. What does "Krimosaurus mnyama" mean?

The name "Krimosaurus" means "monster from Krim," which is an old name for Antarctica, while "mnyama" means "black" in Swahili, referring to the dark color of the bones.

4. What does the discovery of Krimosaurus mnyama tell us about mosasaurs?

The discovery of Krimosaurus mnyama sheds new light on the evolution and diversity of mosasaurs during the Late Cretaceous period. It suggests that mosasaurs were able to adapt to different environments and thrive in different parts of the world.

5. Why is the discovery of Krimosaurus mnyama significant?

The discovery of Krimosaurus mnyama is a significant contribution to our understanding of the history of life on Earth. It provides new insights into the paleobiology and paleoecology of mosasaurs, including their feeding habits, locomotion, and reproductive strategies.

 


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