A 180-million-year-old ichthyosaur fossil was discovered in Mistelgau, Germany. The fossil belongs to the genus Temnodontosaurus and measures an estimated 21 feet in length. It includes a nearly complete skull, lower jaw, shoulder girdle, spine, and over 100 teeth.
The fossil shows signs of severe jaw injuries. This discovery challenges previous assumptions about the survival timeline of ichthyosaurs in the region. The presence of gastroliths suggests a shift in feeding behavior.
Key findings:
- The specimen is one of the youngest finds of the ichthyosaur genus to date.
- Gastroliths were found in the abdominal cavity of the fossil.
- The fossil provides insights into the ecological dynamics of Jurassic seas.
Stefan Eggmaier noted that despite its injuries, the ichthyosaur survived—evidenced by its heavily worn teeth and gastroliths. Ulrike Albert stated that this find is significant for understanding marine reptiles from this era.
Eggmaier also remarked that the injuries likely limited the animal’s ability to catch prey. The discovery was detailed in the Journal Zitteliana.
