Adaptoritega

Adaptoritega is a genus of extinct marine reptiles that lived during the Late Triassic period, approximately 231 to 201 million years ago. The genus is known from a single species, Adaptoritega longirostris, which was discovered in the United Kingdom. Adaptoritega is notable for its unique combination of features, including a long, narrow snout, large eyes, and a distinctive pattern of bone growth on its skull.

The skull of Adaptoritega is characterized by a series of small, bony projections that run along the sides of the snout. These projections are thought to have been used for sensory purposes, possibly to detect vibrations or changes in water pressure. The large eyes of Adaptoritega suggest that it may have been a nocturnal or crepuscular predator, using its keen vision to hunt in low-light conditions.

Adaptoritega is believed to have been a marine reptile, with a body structure that is more similar to that of ichthyosaurs than to other marine reptiles like plesiosaurs. Its long, narrow snout and large eyes are thought to have been adaptations for hunting in the water, allowing it to detect and capture prey with precision.

The discovery of Adaptoritega has provided valuable insights into the evolution of marine reptiles and their adaptations to aquatic environments. Its unique combination of features has helped to fill a gap in our understanding of the diversity of Triassic marine ecosystems.