How long ago did this Patagonian plesiosaur live?

Question

Accepted Answer

The Patagonian Plesiosaur Lived 65 Million Years Ago

A replica of a plesiosaur skeleton, a marine reptile from the Cretaceous period, was unveiled yesterday in Argentina. This particular specimen lived approximately 65 million years ago. The discovery and preparation of this fossil represent a significant undertaking by paleontologists.
Fossil Discovery and Location

The fossil was discovered in 2009 within a Patagonian lake near El Calafate. This location, about 2,800 kilometres from Buenos Aires, was once submerged as the Andes mountains had not yet formed. The marine reptile's remains were found embedded in Cretaceous period rocks submerged in Lake Argentino.
Excavation and Preparation Process

Unearthing the nine-metre-long fossil required the removal of approximately four tons of rock. Part of the lake had to be drained to access the remains, which were located about 50 centimetres underwater. This meticulous process, involving draining water and removing substantial rock, has been ongoing since 2009.
Specimen Size and Characteristics

The complete skeleton of the plesiosaur measures nine metres in length. Its fins are also notably large, with each measuring 1.3 metres. Plesiosaurs were characterized by their long necks, small heads, and sharp teeth, and they inhabited seas globally during their existence.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

How long ago did this Patagonian plesiosaur live?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends