The Last Giants: New Evidence for Giant Late Triassic Ichthyosaurs from the UK
The discovery of giant marine reptiles has always fascinated scientists and the general public alike. These prehistoric creatures, often referred to as sea monsters, were top predators of the oceans during the time of dinosaurs. And now, a new study published in PLoS ONE has revealed even more evidence for the existence of giant ichthyosaurs in the UK during the Late Triassic period.
The study, led by Dean R. Lomax from The Royal Commission for the Exhibition of 1851, reports on the discovery of a second surangular bone from a giant ichthyosaur in Somerset, UK. This new find is comparable in size and shape to a previously described specimen from Lilstock, Somerset, but is more complete and better preserved.
The two specimens were from creatures over 20 meters long. This makes them among the largest marine reptiles found. The new specimen is a new type, named Ichthyotitan severnensis.
Thin sections of this new specimen also revealed similar histological features seen in other giant ichthyosaur specimens. This suggests that these marine reptiles had an atypical way of forming bone tissue in their lower jaws.
These specimens are old and big. They might be from shastasaurid ichthyosaurs. More research is needed to confirm this. Nonetheless, this is an exciting discovery that adds to our understanding of these ancient giants.
Paleontology
This study also highlights the importance of continued research and exploration in paleontology. By studying fossils and uncovering new evidence, we can paint a clearer picture of Earth’s past and better understand how life evolved over millions of years.
The full study can be accessed on the PLoS ONE website and is open access, meaning it is available for anyone to read and learn from. We hope this discovery will inspire more people, especially teenagers, to explore the fascinating world of paleontology and STEM education.
Next time you walk along Somerset’s coast, look for fossilized bones. You might find ancient giants waiting to be discovered.
Reference: Lomax DR, de la Salle P, Perillo M, Reynolds J, Reynolds R, Waldron JF (2024) The last giants: New evidence for giant Late Triassic (Rhaetian) ichthyosaurs from the UK. PLoS ONE 19(4): e0300289. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0300289
