Ichthyosaur Discovery Quiz

What significant discovery was made by the father-daughter team at Blue Anchor Beach?

How long would the reconstructed lower jaw of the new ichthyosaur specimen measure if complete?

What does the name Ichthyotitan severnensis refer to in English?

Which periods did ichthyosaurs predominantly inhabit?

What initially led Justin Reynolds to believe the bones were from an ichthyosaur?

What percentage of fossil inquiries typically turn out to be rocks, according to Dr. Lomax?

How long is the estimated length of the new ichthyosaur species?

Who confirmed Justin's guess that the fossils belonged to an ichthyosaur?

Ichthyosaur Discovery

A new species of massive ichthyosaur, Ichthyotitan severnensis, was discovered.
The marine reptiles lived during the Triassic and Jurassic periods (251 to 145 million years ago).
They resembled dolphins and whales but were reptiles.

Discovery Timeline

Spring 2020: Justin Reynolds and his daughter Ruby found a small ichthyosaur fossil on Blue Anchor Beach in Somerset, England.
The region is known for Triassic-era fossils.
Additional fossil fragments were found leading to the discovery of a significant portion of the lower jaw.
October 2022: Enough remains were gathered to reconstruct a portion of the lower jaw.
Analysis showed the complete jaw would measure over 6 feet (1.8 m) long.
Estimated total length of the complete creature: 80 feet (24 m)
April 17, 2024: Research was published in PLOS One, with Ruby and Justin Reynolds listed as co-authors.

Scientific Significance

Ichthyotitan severnensis is one of the largest marine animals ever discovered.
The fossil discovery, and a similar one in 2016, enabled scientists to classify it as a new species.
The discovery showcased significant paleontological contributions of amateur paleontologists.

Test your knowledge on the recent discovery of the massive ichthyosaur Ichthyotitan severnensis. This quiz covers the timeline of the discovery, its significance in paleontology, and details about this ancient marine reptile. Dive into the fascinating world of Triassic and Jurassic period marine life!