Unearthing Ichthyosaur Mysteries: A Dive into Aotearoa's Ancient Seas

A newly discovered ichthyosaur skeleton in New Zealand, found by palaeontologist James Crampton in 2010, offers the most complete specimen of its kind in the region. This 98-million-year-old fossil provides fresh insights into the diversity and evolution of ichthyosaurs, challenging previous understanding of Cretaceous marine reptile distribution.

In a groundbreaking discovery, a near-complete ichthyosaur skeleton has been unearthed in Aotearoa New Zealand, promising to reshape our understanding of these ancient marine reptiles.

Discovered a decade ago by palaeontologist James Crampton, this 98-million-year-old fossil boasts features not seen in other ichthyosaurs and challenges existing evolutionary theories.

Expert analysis using cutting-edge CT scanning has revealed that the specimen is most closely related to Australian and European species, offering insights into prehistoric marine life in the southern hemisphere.

(With inputs from agencies.)