peliuran

Peliuran is a genus of extinct marine reptiles belonging to the order Plesiosauria. These creatures lived during the Early Cretaceous period, approximately 130 to 125 million years ago. Fossil remains attributed to peliuran have been found in what is now Europe.

Peliuran was a relatively small plesiosaur, with estimated lengths of around 3 to 4 meters. Like other plesiosaurs, it possessed a long neck, a broad body, and four paddle-like limbs adapted for swimming. Its skull was relatively short and broad, with numerous small, sharp teeth, indicating a diet of fish and other small marine animals.

The exact classification of peliuran within the Plesiosauria order has been subject to debate among paleontologists. Some consider it a distinct genus, while others have suggested it might be a juvenile form or a closely related species to other known plesiosaurs. The limited fossil evidence available has contributed to these ongoing discussions.

The discovery of peliuran fossils provides valuable insights into the diversity of marine life during the Early Cretaceous. It helps paleontologists understand the evolutionary relationships and ecological roles of plesiosaurs in ancient oceans. Further discoveries and detailed analysis of existing specimens are crucial for a more comprehensive understanding of this extinct reptile.