Draconsorta

Draconsorta is a genus of extinct marine reptiles that lived during the Early Cretaceous period. The name Draconsorta comes from the Greek words "drakon," meaning dragon, and "sorta," referring to a sorting or selection. This genus is characterized by its unique combination of sauropterygian and ichthyosaur-like features.

Fossil discoveries of Draconsorta have primarily been limited to the Americas, with the earliest known finds coming from the Poblado Formation in Argentina. Dated to around 130 million years ago, these remains include well-preserved skulls and jaw fragments. Since then, further specimens have been identified in the Tlayua Formation in Mexico and the Laramie Formation in the United States.

Physical attributes of Draconsorta resemble those of the ichthyosaur genus Shastasaurus, but with a more massive body and a distinctive, short skull. The tooth structure is also notable, showing evidence of exceptional strength and durability. It is believed that Draconsorta preyed upon fish and other aquatic animals, likely employing sophisticated hunting tactics to survive in the Early Cretaceous oceans.

Like many other extinct marine reptiles, the pelvic and limb bones of Draconsorta are poorly preserved, leading to ongoing debates among paleontologists regarding its actual mode of locomotion. However, specialized features of its limbs suggest that Draconsorta was somewhat adapted to swimming, albeit to a limited extent.