elopiforms

Elopiforms are a group of extinct marine reptiles that lived during the Mesozoic era, from the Late Triassic to the Late Cretaceous periods. They are characterized by their elongated, snake-like bodies and the presence of a single, long, whip-like tail. Elopiforms are believed to have been semi-aquatic, using their tails for propulsion in water, and their elongated bodies for swimming. They are thought to have been ambush predators, using their tails to strike at prey.

Elopiforms are divided into two main groups: the Elopidae and the Plesiosauria. Elopidae are small, fish-like reptiles that lived during the Late Triassic and Early Jurassic periods. They had a single, long, whip-like tail and were likely ambush predators. Plesiosauria, on the other hand, are a diverse group of marine reptiles that lived from the Late Jurassic to the Late Cretaceous periods. They had a single, long, whip-like tail and a variety of body shapes and sizes, ranging from small, fish-like forms to large, long-necked forms.

Elopiforms are an important group of marine reptiles, providing insight into the evolution of marine life and the transition from terrestrial to aquatic environments. Their unique adaptations and diverse forms make them a fascinating subject of study for paleontologists and evolutionary biologists.