Oldest record of Machimosaurini (Thalattosuchia, Teleosauroidea): teeth and scavenging traces from the Middle Jurassic (Bajocian) of Switzerland
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View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Fossil evidence reveals Middle Jurassic scavenging by Machimosaurini teleosauroids on an ichthyosaur carcass. This discovery sheds light on the feeding habits and ecological roles of these ancient marine reptiles.
Area Of Science
- Paleontology
- Marine Biology
- Evolutionary Biology
Background
- The Jurassic period saw significant marine reptile diversification.
- Thalattosuchian crocodylomorphs, including Machimosaurini, emerged in the Early Jurassic and flourished in the Late Jurassic.
- The Middle Jurassic marine reptile fossil record is sparse, hindering evolutionary understanding.
Purpose Of The Study
- To document the earliest evidence of macrophagous/durophagous Machimosaurini teleosauroids.
- To investigate feeding behaviors and ecological interactions during the Middle Jurassic.
- To fill gaps in the fossil record concerning thalattosuchian evolution.
Main Methods
- Analysis of fossilized tooth crowns with distinct conical, blunt shapes and ridged enamel.
- Association of these teeth with a partial ichthyosaur skeleton.
- Examination of bite marks and furrows on ichthyosaur ribs, assessing for signs of healing.
Main Results
- Discovery of three Machimosaurini tooth crowns from the late Bajocian (ca. 169 Ma).
- Teeth were found associated with an ichthyosaur skeleton, including jaw and vertebral elements.
- Ichthyosaur ribs displayed bite marks consistent with Machimosaurini teeth, lacking evidence of healing, suggesting scavenging.
Conclusions
- This study provides the first evidence of Middle Jurassic Machimosaurini teleosauroids.
- The findings indicate peri- to post-mortem scavenging behavior by Machimosaurini on large marine reptile carcasses.
- This research enhances our understanding of Middle Jurassic marine ecosystems and predator-prey dynamics.
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