First Record of Aff. Plesiosuchus sp. (Mesosuchia, Metriorhynchidae) in the Kimmeridgian of Le Havre (Normandy, North-Western France): Biometry, Profile of Locomotion, and Paleobiological Consequences
2024
First Record of Aff. Plesiosuchus sp. in France
Sample size: 11
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Stéphane Hua
Primary Institution: Odyssée Paléospace, Villers-sur-Mer, France
Hypothesis
This study proposes a new method to estimate the size of the aff. Plesiosuchus sp. based on vertebrae.
Conclusion
The study confirms the presence of the largest metriorhynchid, aff. Plesiosuchus sp., in France, with an estimated size of 6.5 m.
Supporting Evidence
- This is the first record of the biggest Metriorhynchidae, aff. Plesiosuchus sp., in France.
- The remains consist of a partial vertebral column and an ischium fragment.
- A new method for estimating size based on vertebrae was proposed.
- The estimated size of the individual is 6.5 m.
- The study provides insights into the locomotion profile of the animal.
Takeaway
Scientists found a big ancient crocodile in France and figured out how long it was using its bones.
Methodology
The study used a new biometric method based on vertebrae to estimate the size of the specimen.
Limitations
The study is based on a partial vertebral column, which may limit the accuracy of size estimation.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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