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Ancient Ichthyosaur Fossil Reveals Jurassic Marine Ecosystem Secrets

11/5/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Xiphodracon goldencapensis, an ichthyosaur, lived about 190 million years ago in the Early Jurassic.
Xiphodracon goldencapensis measured roughly 10 feet in length.
The near-complete fossil was found near Golden Cap in Dorset.
Its long snout suggests a diet of fish and squid.
The fossil shows signs of predation, indicating complex Jurassic food webs and diversifying marine life during this ecological transition.

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Story summary

Xiphodracon goldencapensis, an ichthyosaur, lived about 190 million years ago in the Early Jurassic.
Xiphodracon goldencapensis measured roughly 10 feet in length.
The near-complete fossil was found near Golden Cap in Dorset.
Its long snout suggests a diet of fish and squid.
The fossil shows signs of predation, indicating complex Jurassic food webs and diversifying marine life during this ecological transition.