Pillerits

Pillerits, also known as Pillerites, are a group of extinct marine reptiles that lived during the Late Triassic period, approximately 230 to 200 million years ago. They are characterized by their elongated, paddle-like limbs, which were adapted for swimming. Pillerits are believed to have been semi-aquatic, spending much of their time in the water and only coming onto land to lay their eggs.

The name "Pillerits" is derived from the German word "Piller," which refers to a type of swimming stroke. This name was given to these reptiles due to their presumed swimming behavior, although the exact nature of their swimming style remains a subject of debate among paleontologists.

Pillerits are known from several fossil sites in Europe, including Germany, France, and Switzerland. The most well-known species is Pillerites macropus, which is known from a nearly complete skeleton found in Germany. This species is estimated to have been about 2 meters (6.6 feet) long.

The exact classification of Pillerits within the reptile family tree is still a matter of ongoing research. Some paleontologists suggest that they may be closely related to ichthyosaurs, another group of marine reptiles that evolved later. However, the lack of transitional fossils makes it difficult to determine their precise evolutionary relationships.

Despite their interesting adaptations and historical significance, Pillerits are not well-studied compared to other marine reptiles of the Mesozoic era. More research is needed to fully understand their biology, behavior, and place in the evolutionary tree of reptiles.