The Discovery of a 240-Million-Year-Old Fossil Resembling a Chinese Dragon
The fossil, estimated to be 240 million years old, showcases a remarkable neck with 32 separate vertebrae, surpassing the length of its body and tail combined.
Unearthed in the Guizhou Province of southern China, the fossil belongs to the Dinocephalosaurus orientalis, an aquatic reptile resembling a mythical Chinese dragon due to its elongated neck and snake-like appearance.
This recent finding, more complete than previous identifications, measures approximately 16 feet in length, allowing scientists to present a comprehensive depiction of this ancient creature for the first time.
Nick Fraser, the head of the Department of Natural Sciences at the National Museum of Scotland, expressed excitement about this discovery, emphasizing the enigmatic nature of Triassic creatures that continue to intrigue paleontologists worldwide.
Professor Li Chun from the Institute of Vertebrate Palaeontology and Palaeoanthropology highlighted the collaborative effort involving researchers from Scotland, Germany, America, and China in unraveling the mysteries surrounding this unique reptile.
The Dinocephalosaurus orientalis was observed swimming alongside prehistoric fish called Saurichthys, shedding light on its oceanic adaptation through its flippered limbs and well-preserved fish in its stomach.
Chun emphasized the significance of newly discovered specimens in expanding knowledge about this creature, with Dinocephalosaurus standing out as a remarkable find in the Triassic era of Guizhou Province.
Stephan Spiekman, a postdoctoral researcher at the Stuttgart State Museum of Natural History, expressed hope that further research will unveil more insights into the evolution of these animals, particularly focusing on understanding the functionality of the reptile’s extraordinarily long neck.
The study, published by the Cambridge University Press, suggests that the 32 vertebrae in the neck, longer than the body and tail combined, likely played a crucial role in the feeding habits of this ancient creature.
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