About 85 million years ago, during the time of the dinosaurs, a massive marine reptile roamed the oceans that covered parts of what is now Vancouver Island. The creature, named Traskasaura sandrae, was unlike any other sea creature of its time.
A team of scientists from Marshall University and international colleagues discovered the first fossil of this ancient beast in 2002. Since then, more bones have been found, including a nearly complete skeleton of a young animal. These finds confirmed that Traskasaura sandrae is a new genus and species of elasmosaur.
What makes Traskasaura so fascinating is its unique blend of features from both ancient and modern marine reptiles. Its jaw and neck resemble those of older elasmosaurs, with big teeth and a long string of neck bones. However, parts of its shoulders and flippers seem more advanced, like those of newer species in its family.
The researchers found that Traskasaura sandrae developed similar traits independently, rather than evolving from other plesiosaurs through convergent evolution. This unique trait is what makes this ancient sea creature so fascinating.
Traskasaura sandrae was estimated to be around 12 meters long and had a neck made up of at least 50 bones. Its teeth were sharp, strong, and thick, perfect for crushing prey. Researchers believe that it likely descended upon its prey from above, using its downward swimming ability to ambush its victims.
The team also suggested that ammonites – shell-covered marine animals – may have been on the menu for Traskasaura sandrae. Its robust teeth were ideal for crushing these shells.
Traskasaura sandrae has now been formally named and is recognized as a unique addition to British Columbia’s prehistoric history. The species was initially discovered in 1988, but it wasn’t until a new, well-preserved juvenile skeleton was found that the evidence became strong enough to classify it into its own genus.
The fossil find has gained wider fame since being selected as the Provincial Fossil of British Columbia in 2018. It now resides on public display at the Courtenay and District Museum and Palaeontology Centre, where it can be admired by the public.
Source: https://www.earth.com/news/very-odd-sea-creature-discovered-elasmosaur-fossils-traskasaura-sandrae