China discovery of 2.7-meter Triassic marine reptile fossil

Paleontologists in China have discovered the fossilized remains of a previously unknown species of marine reptile that lived approximately 245 million years ago during the Middle Triassic. The specimen, scientifically named Spatulidentatus breviceps, measured roughly 2.7 meters in length.

Found in the Guanling Formation in southwestern China, the fossil is noted for its exceptional state of preservation, with many bones remaining articulated. Key anatomical features include an unusually small head relative to its body size and unique, spatula-shaped teeth. Researchers believe this specialized dentition was linked to its feeding strategy, though its exact diet remains under study.

The discovery provides significant insight into the diversification of marine reptiles following the mass extinction at the end of the Permian period.