A groundbreaking fossil discovery in Morocco has shed new light on a mysterious ancient marine predator, Carinodens acrodon. This small but highly specialized mosasaur roamed the oceans during the late Cretaceous period, providing unprecedented insights into its diet, behavior, and ecological role.
The specimen, which includes well-preserved upper and lower jaws, is the most complete example of Carinodens acrodon to date. It highlights the extraordinary diversity of mosasaurs, showcasing how these ancient predators evolved unique adaptations to exploit different ecological niches.
Carinodens acrodon’s teeth were uniquely suited for crushing hard-shelled prey, such as mollusks and crustaceans. Its relatively small size, elongated jaws, and unusual teeth made it stand out among its contemporaries.
The discovery sheds light on the persistence of primitive traits in certain mosasaur species. While Carinodens acrodon retained many plesiomorphic features, it coexisted with more derived species of Carinodens.
This find emphasizes the adaptability of mosasaurs, showcasing how they evolved to dominate marine ecosystems in the Cretaceous. The fossil’s completeness has allowed paleontologists to expand their understanding of this enigmatic animal and provide new insights into its evolution and ecology.
Source: https://dailygalaxy.com/2025/01/sea-monster-morocco-carinodens-acrodon