The Ichthyosaurus was a marine reptile known for its dolphin-like appearance and large eyes that lived during the early Jurassic through the early Cretaceous period. They were part of the larger Ichthyosaur family but were rather small compared to its relatives (its larger relative, Ichthyotitan could reach lengths up to 80 feet). Unlike most reptiles, the ichthyosaurus did not lay eggs and instead gave birth to live young. Evidence for this can be seen in the fossil record, as the bones of young have been found inside the body cavity.
The Ichthyosaurus was one of the first fossilized marine reptiles to be uncovered, and hundreds of remains have been found in England, Germany, Greenland, and Alberta. The earliest complete fossil was found by Mary Anning in 1811, though remains had been discovered as early as 1699.
The Ichthyosaurus was a marine reptile known for its dolphin-like appearance and large eyes that lived during the early Jurassic through the early Cretaceous period. They were part of the larger Ichthyosaur family but were rather small compared to its relatives (its larger relative, Ichthyotitan could reach lengths up to 80 feet). Unlike most reptiles, the ichthyosaurus did not lay eggs and instead gave birth to live young. Evidence for this can be seen in the fossil record, as the bones of young have been found inside the body cavity.
The Ichthyosaurus was one of the first fossilized marine reptiles to be uncovered, and hundreds of remains have been found in England, Germany, Greenland, and Alberta. The earliest complete fossil was found by Mary Anning in 1811, though remains had been discovered as early as 1699.