Phibalis

Phibalis is a genus of extinct marine reptiles belonging to the family Pliosauridae, a group of short-necked plesiosaurs. Fossils of Phibalis have been discovered in the United Kingdom, specifically from the Jurassic period, dating back to the Bathonian stage. The genus is currently monotypic, meaning it contains only one recognized species, Phibalis pulchra.

Phibalis pulchra was a medium-sized pliosaur, estimated to have reached lengths of around 5 meters. Its skeletal features, particularly the shape of its skull and teeth, indicate that it was a predator, likely feeding on fish and other marine invertebrates. The genus was first described in the late 19th century, based on fossil remains found in Dorset, England.

The discovery of Phibalis contributes to our understanding of the diversity and evolution of pliosaurs during the Jurassic period. Its presence in the fossil record helps to fill gaps in our knowledge about the marine ecosystems of that era. Research on Phibalis continues, with ongoing studies aiming to refine its phylogenetic placement within the Pliosauridae and to learn more about its paleoecology.