A Groundbreaking Paleontological Discovery

In an exciting revelation for paleontology, researchers have announced the identification of a brand-new genus and species of ichthyosaur, discovered in the fossil-rich layers of the Água de Madeiros Formation, Portugal.

Meet Gadusaurus aqualigneus!

This newly described creature, named Gadusaurus aqualigneus, roamed the ancient seas during the Early Jurassic period, approximately 193 million years ago. Remarkably small for its kind, this marine reptile measures about 2 meters (6.6 feet) in length.

Unraveling the Mysteries of Ichthyosaurs

Ichthyosaurs were a fascinating group of Mesozoic reptiles, adeptly adapted to life in the oceans. According to Dr. João Pratas E Sousa from Universidade Nova de Lisboa, ichthyosaurs thrived from the Early Triassic to the Late Cretaceous. However, the fossil record shows that their presence was particularly notable in Early Jurassic Europe.

Despite ichthyosaur fossils being abundant in several European marine deposits, the Iberian Peninsula—encompassing modern-day Portugal and Spain—has been a surprisingly sparse region for such discoveries.

A Remarkable Find in Portugal

The nearly complete skull of Gadusaurus aqualigneus was unearthed in 2021 near São Pedro de Moel, specifically on the picturesque Água de Madeiros beach, at the border of Marinha Grande and Alcobaça. The fossil itself measures approximately 35.2 cm (13.9 inches) in length and provides a rare glimpse into the life of ichthyosaurs.

Exploring the Lusitanian Basin

The location of this find, within the Lusitanian Basin of western Iberia, is crucial; this area offers an exceptional marine record from the Lower Jurassic. The basin itself has a fascinating geological history, shaped during the dramatic opening of the Atlantic Ocean.

Why This Discovery Matters

The findings from this research, which have been published in the journal Acta Palaeontologica Polonica, mark a significant milestone as it represents the most complete ichthyosaur remains found in the Iberian Peninsula to date. Furthermore, Gadusaurus aqualigneus becomes the first new ichthyosaur species to be described in this region.

Theories on Ancient Ocean Life

Researchers suggest that Gadusaurus aqualigneus lived just before the Toarcian Oceanic Anoxic Event, which is believed to have impacted subsequent ichthyosaur species. They speculate that environmental changes during this time may have similarly influenced the lifestyle of this newly identified species.

As the story of Gadusaurus aqualigneus unfolds, paleontologists are eager to conduct further research to uncover more secrets about this ancient marine reptile and its world.