The extinct, top predator Ieldraan melkshamensis (163 million years ago / Middle Jurassic epoch) was just discovered in Melksham, Wiltshire, England.
The creature measured about meters in length, and the fossil comprised of a skull and lower jaw. Through precise investigation of the fossil, scientists concluded that the specimen and its sub-family emanated during the Middle Jurassic period, millions of years earlier than originally thought.
The fossil was purchased by the British Museum, and is now located in the Natural History Museum in London.
Quote from Davide Foffa (PhD, University of Edinburgh), “It’s not the prettiest fossil in the world, but Ieldraan melkshamensis tells us a very important story about the evolution of these ancient crocodiles and how they became the apex predators in their ecosystem.”
Read more about this fascinating story at: http://www.sci-news.com/
Photo credit: Fabio Manucci
No comments:
Write comments