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New Ichthyosaur Species Discovered in Portugal’s Jurassic Fossils

5/20/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Paleontologists have unveiled an exciting new ichthyosaur species, Gadusaurus aqualigneus, dating back 193 million years to the Early Jurassic. Discovered in Portugal's Água de Madeiros Formation, the nearly complete 35.2 cm skull adds a remarkable chapter to the Iberian Peninsula's fossil history, showcasing the region's rich prehistoric legacy.

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Story summary

Paleontologists have unveiled an exciting new ichthyosaur species, Gadusaurus aqualigneus, dating back 193 million years to the Early Jurassic. Discovered in Portugal's Água de Madeiros Formation, the nearly complete 35.2 cm skull adds a remarkable chapter to the Iberian Peninsula's fossil history, showcasing the region's rich prehistoric legacy.