teleosaurs

Teleosaurs are a group of marine reptiles that lived during the Early Cretaceous period, approximately 145-100 million years ago. They belong to the clade Ichthyosauria, which is characterized by their streamlined, dolphin-like bodies. Teleosaurs are distinct from other ichthyosaurs in their specific dental and skeletal features.

The name "teleosaur" refers to the clade Teleosauroidea, which includes several species of marine reptiles. Teleosaurs were found in Europe, North America, and Africa, with fossil remains discovered in a variety of marine and coastal environments. These aquatic reptiles were likely carnivorous, with adaptations that allowed them to thrive in their aquatic habitats.

Fossil evidence suggests that teleosaurs had long, narrow snouts, which were lined with sharp, conical teeth. Their dentition is distinct from that of other ichthyosaurs, with the presence of smaller, more numerous teeth in the lower jaw. Teleosaurs also had robust limb bones, but their forelimbs were generally shorter and more narrow than those of some other ichthyosaurs.

Several species of teleosaurs have been described based on fossil discoveries. One of the most well-known species is the teleosaur Teleosaurus cadetoi, which was found in Europe. Teleosaurs continue to be a topic of interest in the field of paleontology due to their insights into the diversity of life on Earth during the Early Cretaceous period.