Pliosaur

Pliosaur (from the Greek πλίος andσαυρος) is a genus of extinct marine reptiles belonging to the Pliosauroidea superfamily. They were large carnivorous predators that lived during the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. The first pliosaur fossils were discovered in England in 1841, and since then, numerous specimens have been found all over the world.

The most distinctive feature of plesiosaurs is their long necks, which can measure up to 3 m (10 ft) in length. Their skulls are large and robust, with sharp teeth adapted for tearing flesh. Pliosaurs also have two pairs of paddle-like limbs, which they use to propel themselves through water.

Fossil evidence suggests that pliosaurs were powerful swimmers and could reach speeds of up to 25 km/h (15 mph). They probably hunted fish, squid, and other small marine creatures. However, some scientists believe that they may also have preyed on larger animals such as turtles and crocodiles.

Pliosaurs went extinct at the end of the Cretaceous period along with many other dinosaurs. However, they left behind a rich fossil record which has provided scientists with valuable insights into their anatomy and lifestyle.