New sea monster has been discovered by scientists that was never identified before
Around 85 million years ago, the waters that once covered parts of today's Vancouver Island were home to many long-necked marine reptiles known as elasmosaurs. These creatures belonged to the larger group called plesiosaurs, which were a diverse family of ancient marine reptiles.
Elasmosaurs were especially notable for their extremely long necks, allowing them to navigate the prehistoric seas with ease during that time period. In 2002, scientists uncovered the first fossil of one of these creatures within the Haslam Formation rock layer.
Since that initial find, additional bones have been discovered, including an almost complete skeleton of a juvenile specimen.Thanks to these discoveries, researchers from Marshall University, working with colleagues in Canada and Chile, have confirmed that this fossil, along with bones from two other specimens, represents a completely new genus and species of elasmosaur, which they named
Traskasaura sandrae
which is a new odd sea monster that was never seen before and is a new discovery in science.
Characteristics of Traskasaura sandrae
What make Traskasaura sandrae unique
The quality that makes
Traskasaura
sandrae so intriguing is the way it combines traits from both primitive and more evolved marine reptiles. Its jaw and neck resemble those of older elasmosaurs, featuring large teeth and a long series of neck bones. However, some parts of its shoulders and flippers appear more advanced, similar to those found in newer species of its family. It's like discovering an unexpected mix of old with new characteristics in one.
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'When I first examined the fossils and realized they belonged to a new species, I suspected it might be related to plesiosaurs from Antarctica,' said the study lead author named Professor F. Robin O'Keefe.Although
Traskasaura sandrae
shows some advanced features, it didn't actually evolve from those modern elasmosaurs. Instead, it developed similar traits independently through a process called convergent evolution.
Powerful oceanic predator as sea monster
Traskasaura sandrae is reportedly measured about 12 meters (39 feet) long and had a neck composed of at least 50 bones, making it unlike any other marine animal of its era.Its teeth were sharp, robust, and thick which is ideal for crushing prey. Scientists think these characteristics suggest a distinctive hunting style.Instead of attacking from the side or below, Traskasaura probably struck from above, using its skill in swimming downward to surprise and catch its prey.The team also suggested that ammonites which are marine animals with shells that were common in the region and they might have been part of its diet.
According to Professor O'Keefe, ammonites would have made suitable prey because Traskasaura's strong teeth were perfect for crushing their shells.
History of Traskasaura sandrae
The Scientific Discovery of Traskasaura sandrae
Though the species has only recently received its official name, its fossils have been known to scientists and the public for many years.The first specimen was discovered in 1988 by Michael and Heather Trask along the banks of the Puntledge River in the Haslam Formation.
Since then, two additional fossilized individuals have been found in the same region. The 1988 fossil was first described in 2002 but wasn't immediately identified as belonging to a new genus, as there wasn't enough definitive evidence or distinct features in the adult skeleton at that time.The discovery of a well-preserved juvenile skeleton changed everything which provide scientists the evidence and confidence that was needed to formally identify and name the new genus and species.In 2018, the fossils gained broader recognition when they were chosen as the Provincial Fossil of British Columbia through a public vote.
They are now on display at the Courtenay and District Museum and Palaeontology Centre for the public to see.
Gem of British Columbia
The genus name
Traskasaura
pays tribute to the discoverers, Michael and Heather Trask, combined with 'saura,' a Greek term meaning 'lizard' .The species name
sandrae
honors Sandra Lee O'Keefe, whom the authors remember as a courageous fighter against breast cancer.
Traskasaura sandrae
solves a long-standing mystery and gives British Columbia a marine reptile uniquely its own.
After years of uncertainty, an exceptional juvenile fossil and an international team of scientists holds the regard of identifying this ancient sea creature now has a name, a story, and a rightful place in prehistoric history. Thus, the complete study and story was published in the
Journal of Systematic Palaeontology
.
Also read:
Komodo dragons vs. Monitor lizards: Key differences explained on the basis of habitat, diet and more
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