Ichthyosauriformes

Ichthyosauriformes is a group of marine reptiles that lived during the Mesozoic era, from the Late Triassic to the Late Cretaceous periods. They are known for their streamlined bodies, which were adapted for a semi-aquatic lifestyle. Ichthyosauriformes are further divided into two main groups: Ichthyosauria and Plesiosauria.

Ichthyosaurs were fully aquatic and had a more fish-like appearance, with features such as a long, slender snout, large eyes, and a single row of teeth. They were likely fast swimmers and may have fed on fish and other small marine animals. Plesiosaurs, on the other hand, had a more lizard-like appearance and were semi-aquatic, spending time both in and out of the water. They had a broad, flat snout, small eyes, and a double row of teeth. Plesiosaurs were likely scavengers, feeding on carrion and other dead animals.

Ichthyosauriformes are an important group of marine reptiles that provide valuable insights into the evolution of marine ecosystems during the Mesozoic era. Their fossils have been found on all continents, indicating that they were widespread and diverse during their time. However, their extinction at the end of the Cretaceous period is thought to have been caused by the same asteroid impact that wiped out the non-avian dinosaurs.