Folletra

Folletra is a genus of extinct marine reptiles belonging to the group known as plesiosaurs. These marine reptiles lived during the Early Cretaceous period, approximately 130 to 120 million years ago. Folletra fossils have been discovered in various locations, primarily in Europe. The genus was first described in the late 20th century based on fragmentary remains, but more complete skeletons have since been unearthed, providing greater insight into its anatomy and lifestyle.

Folletra possessed the characteristic long neck and small head typical of plesiosaurs. Its body was broad and flattened, supported by four paddle-like limbs adapted for swimming. The exact size of Folletra species varies, but some were estimated to be several meters in length. Their diet likely consisted of fish and other small marine organisms, which they would have caught using their sharp teeth. The classification of Folletra within the plesiosaurian family tree has been subject to debate, with some researchers placing it within the pliosaur lineage, while others consider it a distinct group. Further fossil discoveries and detailed anatomical studies are ongoing to clarify its evolutionary relationships.