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Questions and Answers
What was the primary method used to determine the size of Ichthyotitan severnensis?
What was the primary method used to determine the size of Ichthyotitan severnensis?
- Analysis of the surrounding geological strata where the fossils were discovered.
- Extrapolation from the available jawbone fragments, with comparisons to other giant ichthyosaurs. (correct)
- Direct measurement of the complete fossil skeleton.
- Carbon dating of the bones and using estimated growth rates.
Apart from Dr. Lomax, who were the co-authors of the study published in PLOS One?
Apart from Dr. Lomax, who were the co-authors of the study published in PLOS One?
- Ruby and Justin. (correct)
- The research team directly involved in the 2016 ichthyosaur discovery.
- A team of paleontologists from the journal.
- Unnamed colleagues who assisted with analysis.
What is approximately the full estimated length of Ichthyotitan severnensis?
What is approximately the full estimated length of Ichthyotitan severnensis?
- 70 feet (21 meters)
- 40 feet (12 meters)
- 80 feet (24 meters) (correct)
- 60 feet (18 meters)
What does the name Ichthyotitan severnensis translate to?
What does the name Ichthyotitan severnensis translate to?
How did Ruby describe her feelings about the discovery process?
How did Ruby describe her feelings about the discovery process?
Flashcards
What is Ichthyotitan severnensis?
What is Ichthyotitan severnensis?
A newly discovered species of ichthyosaur, named Ichthyotitan severnensis.
How big was Ichthyotitan severnensis?
How big was Ichthyotitan severnensis?
The estimated length of Ichthyotitan severnensis.
How was Ichthyotitan severnensis identified?
How was Ichthyotitan severnensis identified?
The process of comparing fossil fragments to existing specimens to identify a new species.
Who discovered Ichthyotitan?
Who discovered Ichthyotitan?
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What is the key takeaway from Ruby's experience?
What is the key takeaway from Ruby's experience?
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Study Notes
Discovery of a Prehistoric Ichthyosaur
- A father-daughter team discovered a fossil of a massive ichthyosaur
- The fossils date back to the Triassic and Jurassic periods (251 to 145 million years ago)
- These marine reptiles were often referred to as "fish-lizards"
- They shared physical similarities with dolphins and whales
- The exciting find began in spring 2020 when Justin Reynolds and his daughter Ruby went fossil hunting on Blue Anchor Beach in Somerset, England.
Fossil Characteristics
- The amateur paleontologists found a four-inch (10 cm) long oval fossil
- This fossil was twice as big as a previously found fossilized bone
- The bone fragments led to the discovery of an ichthyosaur
- Experts at the University of Manchester confirmed the find
Size and Significance
- The estimated length of the complete jaw is over six feet (1.8 m)
- If complete, the jaw would have measured over 80 feet (24 m) long
- This would make it one of the largest marine animals
Classification
- Scientists classified the new species as Ichthyosaur severennsis
- The species was named the "giant fish lizard" from the Severn
- The new species was published in the journal PLOS One on April 17, 2024
Teenager's Perspective
- Ruby, now 15, is enthusiastic about her fossil-hunting adventures
- She states that she didn't realize how important her role in science was until she made the discovery
- She highlights the enjoyment of exploring.
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