Ummikus

Ummikus is a genus of extinct marine reptiles belonging to the group known as plesiosaurs. These marine reptiles lived during the Early Cretaceous period, approximately 125 to 100 million years ago. Fossils attributed to Ummikus have been discovered in marine sedimentary rocks, primarily in regions that were once part of the ancient Tethys Sea.

The genus Ummikus is characterized by certain anatomical features that distinguish it from other plesiosaurs. These features are often related to the structure of its skull, vertebral column, and pectoral girdle. Like other plesiosaurs, Ummikus possessed a long neck, a broad body, and four paddle-like limbs, adapted for swimming in ancient oceans. The exact size of Ummikus species can vary, but they were generally medium to large-sized marine predators.

Research into Ummikus relies on the analysis of fossilized remains, which provide insights into its morphology, diet, and paleoenvironment. The limited fossil record means that the understanding of this genus is continually evolving as new discoveries are made and existing specimens are re-examined. Ummikus is considered a significant find for understanding the diversity and evolution of plesiosaurs during the Cretaceous period.