Ancient Sea Monster Unearthed: The recent discovery of a remarkably well-preserved pliosaur skull on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, presented in the upcoming documentary “Attenborough and the Jurassic Sea Monster,” could unravel mysteries about these ancient sea creatures. Estimated to be around 150 million years old, this fossil is almost 3 million years younger than any other pliosaur find. The skull, measuring nearly 2 meters in length and weighing over half a metric ton in its fossilized state, belonged to a carnivorous marine reptile that could reach lengths of 15 meters.
Local paleontologist Steve Etches, involved in the excavation, described the delicate process of uncovering the fossil from a cliff 11 meters above the ground and 15 meters down. The excavation, detailed in the documentary, became a race against time and the elements to preserve this rare find. The fossil’s completeness, with jaws closed together, heightened excitement among paleontologists.
The restoration process, led by Etches, involved meticulously piecing together the mud- and bone-cracked fragments, turning it into a nearly intact specimen. The fossil’s excellent condition is attributed to the favorable burial environment and rapid sedimentation after its demise.
This discovery sheds light on the pliosaur’s characteristics as a formidable predator in the ancient seas. With huge razor-sharp teeth and a bite twice as powerful as a modern saltwater crocodile, the pliosaur was a top marine predator capable of preying on creatures unfortunate enough to share its habitat. The fossil’s well-preserved features, including sensory pits on its skull, offer insights into the pliosaur’s hunting abilities and adaptations. The documentary, set to air on PBS, delves into the scientific significance of this find and the challenges faced during its excavation and restoration.
Also Read: Heart of an Ancient Enigma: The 380-Million-Year-Old Gogo Fish Discovery
Our Reader’s Queries
What is the oldest sea monster?
Scientists have recently discovered the oldest mega-predatory pliosaur known to mankind. The fossils were found in France and have been identified as a new pliosaur genus named Lorrainosaurus. These fossils date back to around 170 million years ago, making this discovery a significant breakthrough in the field of paleontology. The identification of this ancient creature sheds light on the evolution of marine life and provides valuable insights into the history of our planet.
What was the largest prehistoric sea creature to exist?
Shonisaurus sikanniensis holds the title for the largest ichthyosaur ever discovered, measuring an impressive 21 meters (70 feet) in length. This remarkable creature also happens to be the largest extinct marine animal known to man.
Where was the sea monster found?
A remarkable discovery has been made by fossil hunters on a beach in Dorset, UK. They have found one of the most complete pliosaur skulls ever discovered, measuring an impressive six-and-a-half feet in length. This prehistoric “sea monster” gives us a glimpse into the size of some of the largest pliosaur adults, which could reach up to 50 feet in length. This discovery is a significant contribution to our understanding of these fascinating creatures from the past.
What was the skull found in Dorset?
The colossal skull belongs to a pliosaur, a massive carnivorous creature that once roamed the earth. Sir David Attenborough has documented the meticulous excavation of the skull from the Jurassic Coast in Dorset for his latest project, ‘Attenborough and the Giant Sea Monster’. This fascinating documentary showcases the incredible size and power of these ancient beasts, providing a glimpse into the prehistoric world.