hallia

Hallia is a genus of extinct marine reptiles belonging to the order Plesiosauria. These creatures lived during the Early Jurassic period, approximately 200 to 175 million years ago. Hallia fossils have been found in Europe, primarily in Germany. They are characterized by their relatively small size compared to some other plesiosaurs, with estimated lengths of around 3 meters. Their anatomy suggests they were likely active predators, swimming in the ancient seas that covered parts of Europe during the Jurassic.

The genus Hallia was first described in the early 20th century based on fossil remains discovered in the Posidonia Shale of Holzmaden, Germany. The type species, Hallia variabile, is known from several well-preserved specimens, which have provided valuable insights into the morphology and lifestyle of this plesiosaur. Like other plesiosaurs, Hallia possessed a long neck and tail, with a flattened, paddle-like body. Its teeth were sharp and numerous, indicating a diet of fish and other small marine animals. The classification of Hallia within Plesiosauria has been subject to some debate among paleontologists, with various studies placing it in different families or suborders. However, it is generally considered a representative of the early diversification of plesiosaurs. The study of Hallia continues to contribute to our understanding of marine reptile evolution during the Mesozoic Era.