Catutosaurus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Catutosaurus |
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Scientific classification  |
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| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Reptilia |
| Order: | †Ichthyosauria |
| Family: | †Ophthalmosauridae |
| Genus: | †Catutosaurus Fernández et al, 2021 |
| Type species | |
| Catutosaurus gaspariniae Fernández et al, 2021
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Catutosaurus is an ancient marine reptile called an ophthalmosaurid ichthyosaur. It lived during the Late Jurassic period, a long time ago, in what is now Argentina. Scientists found its fossils in a place called the Vaca Muerta Formation.
So far, only one type of Catutosaurus has been discovered, and it's named C. gaspariniae. This name honors a famous paleontologist, Dr. Zulma Gasparini, who has studied many amazing fossils from Argentina.
Contents
What is an Ichthyosaur?
Ancient Ocean Reptiles
Ichthyosaurs were a group of reptiles that lived entirely in the ocean. Their name means "fish lizard," which is a great way to describe them! They looked a lot like modern-day dolphins or sharks, with sleek bodies, fins, and a tail fin. But remember, they were reptiles, not fish or mammals.
Life in the Jurassic Seas
During the Late Jurassic period, about 150 million years ago, the oceans were full of amazing creatures. Ichthyosaurs like Catutosaurus were top predators. They likely hunted fish and squid, using their powerful tails to swim fast through the water. Their large eyes suggest they were good at seeing in the dim ocean depths.
Where Did Catutosaurus Live?
Fossils from Argentina
The fossils of Catutosaurus were found in the Vaca Muerta Formation in Argentina. This area is famous for its rich fossil discoveries. It tells us that this part of the world was once covered by a vast ocean where these incredible marine reptiles swam.
The Vaca Muerta Formation
The Vaca Muerta Formation is a special rock layer that holds many clues about ancient life. Scientists study these rocks to learn about the animals and plants that lived millions of years ago. Finding Catutosaurus here helps us understand more about the types of creatures that lived in the Jurassic seas of South America.
Discovery of Catutosaurus
When Was It Found?
Catutosaurus was officially described by scientists in 2021. This means that after years of careful digging and studying the fossils, researchers published their findings. They gave the new ichthyosaur its scientific name and explained what made it unique.
Why Is This Discovery Important?
Every new fossil discovery helps us piece together the puzzle of Earth's history. Catutosaurus gives us more information about the diversity of ichthyosaurs that lived in the Late Jurassic. It also shows how these marine reptiles evolved and spread across different parts of the ancient world.
See also
In Spanish: Catutosaurus para niños
