Description

The Late Cretaceous period, which lasted between 100.5 and 66 million years ago, was dominated by dinosaurs on land and mosasaurs, large predatory lizards, in the oceans. These fearsome aquatic reptiles were rapidly evolving until the devastating asteroid impact, which wiped out 90% of all species on Earth. Recent discoveries in Africa, particularly in Morocco, have shed light on these ancient sea creatures and their distinguishing characteristics.

Stelladens Mysteriosus Revealed: A New Mosasaur Species

A remarkable paleontological discovery in Morocco's Oulad Abdoun Basin has revealed a new species of mosasaur known as Stelladens mysteriosus. This massive sea lizard, roughly twice the size of a dolphin, has piqued the interest of scientists due to its distinct teeth, unlike anything seen before.

Teeth Unlike Any Other

Stelladens mysteriosus teeth have unusual characteristics that have perplexed researchers. They have blade-like ridges like a cross-head screwdriver, which sets them apart from other mosasaurs and reptiles. Stelladens mysteriosus' tooth arrangement suggests that it is a different species with a specialised diet.

Unraveling The Feeding Strategy

Palaeontologists have been puzzled and amused by Stelladens mysteriosus' unusual tooth morphology and feeding method. According to researchers, the teeth resemble the tip of a hex wrench or a Phillips-head screwdriver. Although Stelladens mysteriosus' exact diet is unknown, evidence of predation on small armoured prey like crustaceans, ammonites, or bony fish can be seen in the form of the animal's stout teeth with noticeable wear on the tips.

The Amazing Diversity Revealed: Three New Species In Morocco

The addition of Stelladens mysteriosus to the list of new species discovered in Moroccan Cretaceous deposits brings the total to a growing number. In fact, three new species have been discovered this year alone, demonstrating the astounding diversity that flourished at the end of the Cretaceous period. The extensive fossil record of Morocco offers priceless insights into the remarkable creatures and ancient ecosystems that once inhabited our planet.

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