JurassicCarnivoreMedium
Plesiosaurus
PLEE-see-oh-SORE-us
"near lizard"
Overview
Plesiosaurus was a long-necked marine reptile of the Early Jurassic, paddling through shallow seas with four flipper-like limbs. Its small head and sharp teeth suited a diet of fish and cephalopods.
Vital Statistics
Length
3.5 m
Height
1 m
Weight
300 kg
Est. Speed
20 km/h
Discovered
1821
Named by
William Conybeare
Countries Discovered
United KingdomGermany
Interesting Facts
One of the first fossil reptiles described, recognised in 1821.
Long neck held roughly 40 vertebrae.
Swam by 'underwater flight', rowing with all four flippers.
Likely preyed on fish and belemnites.
Closest Relatives
PlesiopterysSeeleyosaurusMicrocleidus