Discovery of 240-Million-Year-Old Aquatic Reptile Fossil in China
Scientists in Scotland have discovered a 240-million-year-old aquatic reptile fossil in China, known as Dinocephalosaurus orientalis, with a long neck and snake-like appearance. The reptile was well adapted to an oceanic lifestyle and is not closely related to long-necked plesiosaurs. The discovery has captured global attention for its striking appearance.
Key Points
- Dinocephalosaurus orientalis is a 5-meter-long aquatic reptile from the Triassic period
- Distinctive long neck with many vertebrae in the neck and torso
- Well adapted to an oceanic lifestyle with flippered limbs
- Not closely related to long-necked plesiosaurs
- International collaboration among scientists for the discovery
Pros
- Remarkable discovery of a unique aquatic reptile fossil
- Contributes to understanding the evolution of marine reptiles
Cons
- Limited information on the specific behaviors of Dinocephalosaurus orientalis