CretaceousCarnivoreGiant
Mosasaurus
MOH-zah-SORE-us
"Meuse lizard"
Overview
Mosasaurus was a colossal marine lizard of the Late Cretaceous, an apex predator of the seas with powerful jaws and paddle-like limbs. Some species reached 17 metres and hunted fish, squid, and even other marine reptiles.
Vital Statistics
Length
17 m
Height
2 m
Weight
15 t
Est. Speed
30 km/h
Discovered
1822
Named by
William Conybeare
Countries Discovered
NetherlandsBelgiumMoroccoUSA
Interesting Facts
Reached about 17 m in length, one of the largest mosasaurs.
A second set of teeth on the palate helped grip slippery prey.
Close living relatives are monitor lizards and snakes.
First scientifically described mosasaur, found in a Dutch chalk quarry near the Meuse.
Closest Relatives
TylosaurusPlotosaurusPrognathodon