Lambrachaeus
Lambrachaeus is a genus of extinct marine reptiles belonging to the order Plesiosauria, specifically the family Elasmosauridae. These long-necked marine reptiles lived during the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 83.6 to 66 million years ago. Their fossils have been discovered in various parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia, providing valuable insights into the diversity and evolution of plesiosaurs.
Common Names
No common names are specifically associated with the genus Lambrachaeus.
Characteristics
Lambrachaeus is characterized by several distinctive features that differentiate it from other elasmosaurids. These include:
- An exceptionally long neck, comprising a large number of cervical vertebrae.
- A relatively small head with a long, slender snout.
- Paddles that were long and narrow, adapted for efficient swimming.
- A tail that was relatively short compared to the neck.
Environments
Lambrachaeus inhabited marine environments, likely occupying a niche similar to modern sea snakes or sea turtles. They were adapted for swimming and feeding in open waters, using their long necks to reach prey and their paddle-like limbs for propulsion. These reptiles were probably active predators, feeding on fish, squid, and other marine animals.
References
For further information, please refer to the following resources: