Alihella

Alihella is a genus of extinct marine reptiles belonging to the order Plesiosauria. These creatures lived during the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 80 to 70 million years ago. Fossil evidence suggests that Alihella inhabited the waters of what is now North America.

The genus Alihella is known from a limited number of fossil specimens, primarily consisting of fragmentary remains. Despite the scarcity of complete skeletons, paleontologists have been able to infer some characteristics of these animals. Alihella is believed to have been a relatively small to medium-sized pliosaur, a group of plesiosaurs characterized by their short necks and large heads. Their diet likely consisted of fish and other small marine organisms.

The classification of Alihella within the Plesiosauria order has been subject to debate among scientists due to the incomplete nature of the fossil material. However, current understanding places it within the Pliosauridae family. The discovery of Alihella contributes to our understanding of the diversity and evolution of marine reptiles during the Mesozoic Era. Further fossil discoveries may provide more detailed insights into the anatomy, behavior, and ecological role of this ancient creature.