Ovilistojen

Ovilistojen, also known as the Ovilistones, are a group of extinct marine reptiles that lived during the Late Triassic period, approximately 230 to 200 million years ago. They are notable for their unique and distinctive features, which include a long, narrow snout, large eyes, and a series of bony plates along their backs. These plates are believed to have served a protective function, possibly to deter predators or to regulate body temperature.

Ovilistojen fossils have been found in various parts of the world, including Europe, North America, and South America. The most well-known species is Ovilistones laticeps, which was discovered in Germany. This species is characterized by its large, flat head and the distinctive bony plates that cover its back.

The exact classification of ovilistojen within the reptile family tree is still a topic of debate among paleontologists. Some researchers suggest that they may be closely related to the archosaurs, a group that includes dinosaurs, crocodilians, and birds. Others propose that they are more closely related to the sauropterygians, a group of marine reptiles that also includes ichthyosaurs and plesiosaurs.

Despite their unique features and interesting evolutionary history, ovilistojen are not well-studied compared to other Triassic reptiles. More research is needed to fully understand their biology, behavior, and ecological role during the Mesozoic era.