teretunas

Teretunas is a genus of extinct marine reptiles belonging to the plesiosaurian family Pliosauridae. Fossils of teretunas have been found in the United Kingdom, specifically within the Kimmeridge Clay Formation, which dates back to the Late Jurassic period. These marine predators were characterized by their large size and powerful jaws, equipped with sharp teeth, indicating they were active hunters in ancient seas.

The genus was first described in 2015, with the type species being Teretunas strongi, named in honor of the collector of the holotype specimen. Subsequent research has refined our understanding of their anatomy and phylogenetic placement within the pliosaur group. Teretunas represents an important addition to the fossil record, helping scientists to better understand the diversity and evolution of pliosaurs during the Mesozoic Era. Like other pliosaurs, teretunas possessed a streamlined body, short neck, and four large flippers for efficient swimming, enabling them to pursue prey through the marine environment. Their diet likely consisted of fish and other marine animals. The discovery and study of teretunas contribute to our knowledge of Jurassic marine ecosystems.