Giant marine predator Tylosaurus rex was the T. rex of the sea
CNN • • science
Key Points:
- Paleontologists have identified a new species of massive marine reptile named Tylosaurus rex, a mosasaur that lived about 80 million years ago and measured up to 43 feet long, predating the famous dinosaur Tyrannosaurus rex.
- This newly described species was distinguished from fossils previously misclassified as Tylosaurus proriger through extensive examination of specimens from over a dozen institutions, revealing unique anatomical features such as serrated teeth and stronger jaw muscles.
- Tylosaurus rex was an apex predator of its marine ecosystem, preying on fish, turtles, and plesiosaurs, and its discovery highlights greater diversity within the Tylosaurus genus than previously recognized.
- The research underscores the value of museum collections and community involvement, including contributions from amateur paleontologists, in uncovering new species and advancing scientific knowledge.
- Further studies related to Tylosaurus rex are underway, promising additional insights into the biology and ecology of this formidable marine reptile.