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๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡น Austria /Health & Science

Prehistoric reptile with fossilized internal organs discovered

From Der Standard · () German

Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Paleontologists discovered a prehistoric marine reptile fossil from before the dinosaur era.
  • The fossilized remains include mineralized organs such as the stomach, liver, and intestines.
  • The ancient creature possessed strong forelimbs and a reduced pair of hind limbs.

Paleontologists have unearthed a remarkable fossil of a prehistoric marine reptile dating back to the era before dinosaurs. The ancient creature, discovered with its internal organs remarkably preserved, offers a unique glimpse into life millions of years ago.

The fossilized remains reveal a creature with powerful forelimbs, suggesting adeptness in its aquatic environment. Intriguingly, it also possessed a reduced pair of hind limbs, indicating a transitional or specialized form of locomotion. Beneath its ribs, mineralized remnants of its stomach, liver, and intestines provide invaluable data for understanding its diet and physiology.

This discovery is significant as it sheds light on the diversity and evolution of marine life during a critical period in Earth's history. The preservation of soft tissues, including organs, is exceptionally rare and offers scientists a detailed look at the anatomy of these ancient beings. Further study of this specimen is expected to yield new insights into the biology and ecological role of this long-extinct reptile.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Der Standard in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.