190-million-year-old “Sword Dragon” fossil rewrites ichthyosaur history
Science Daily
February 24, 2026
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A newly identified species of ichthyosaur, named *Xiphodracon goldencapensis* and nicknamed the "Sword Dragon of Dorset," has been discovered in the UK's Jurassic Coast. This 190-million-year-old fossil, measuring about three meters long, is exceptionally well-preserved and provides significant new insights into the evolution of these prehistoric marine reptiles. The discovery fills a critical gap in the fossil record during the Pliensbachian period, a time when major ichthyosaur groups were declining while new ones were emerging. Its unique features, including a blade-like snout and potential traces of its last meal, make it one of the most complete prehistoric reptile fossils from this era.
The fossil was found in 2001 by Dorset collector Chris Moore near Golden Cap and later acquired by the Royal Ontario Museum. Despite its importance, it remained unstudied until now. The research, led by ichthyosaur specialist Dr. Dean Lomax, reveals that *Xiphodracon* is more closely related to species from the later Early Jurassic (Toarcian) period than those from the Pliensbachian. This finding helps pinpoint when the evolutionary turnover occurred, suggesting it happened much earlier than previously believed.
The discovery also sheds light on the challenges of life in Jurassic seas. Evidence of injuries and bite marks on the fossil suggests the animal may have suffered serious illness or injury before its death. Co-author Dr. Erin Maxwell noted that these findings contribute to our understanding of both ichthyosaur evolution and the broader ecological dynamics of the time. The research highlights how rare fossils like this one can rewrite our knowledge of ancient ecosystems and evolutionary transitions.
This study is particularly significant for readers interested in paleontology and evolutionary biology, as it addresses a long-standing mystery about the timing and causes of ichthyosaur diversification and extinction events. By revealing *Xiphodracon* as a "missing piece of the puzzle," scientists gain new insights into how these marine reptiles adapted—and ultimately, why their diversity changed so dramatically during this pivotal period in Earth's history. The fossil not only adds to our understanding of prehistory but also underscores the importance of preserving and studying rare specimens for clues about life
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Originally published on Science Daily on 2/24/2026