Discovery of Giant Pliosaur Skull

A remarkable discovery on South West England’s Dorset Jurassic Coast has unveiled a giant pliosaur skull, providing unprecedented insights into the fearsome marine predator that inhabited the oceans 150 million years ago.

Uniqueness

The 2-meter-long fossil is among the most complete pliosaur skulls ever found, boasting 130 razor-sharp teeth. This extraordinary find suggests the pliosaur’s capability to deliver lethal bites with a single strike. Local palaeontologist Steve Etches expressed amazement, labeling it one of the best fossils he has ever worked on.

Underwater T. rex

Described as the “underwater T. rex,” the pliosaur is reminiscent of the iconic dinosaur species from the Late Cretaceous period. With a length of 10-12 meters and powerful flipper-like limbs, the predator earned the reputation of being the ultimate killing machine.

Daring Cliff-Face Excavation

A drone survey identified the skull’s likely location on the towering cliff face, leading to a daring excavation. The months-long effort, involving precarious work hanging from ropes 15 meters above the beach, successfully revealed the well-preserved skull.

Unraveling the Pliosaur’s Secrets

Pliosaur’s powerful bite force is estimated at about 33,000 newtons, surpassing even saltwater crocodiles. The fossil indicates acute senses, with snout pits potentially detecting changes in water pressure caused by prey. A parietal, or third, eye in the skull suggests light sensitivity, aiding the predator in locating animals in murky waters.

Month: Current Affairs - December, 2023

Category: Science & Technology Current Affairs