The Mighty Marine Predator
Mosasaurus was a giant marine reptile that ruled the seas during the Late Cretaceous period, around 82 to 66 million years ago.
| Meaning | Meuse River lizard [Mosa-saurus] |
| Pronunciation | MOH-sah-sore-us |
| When: | Late Cretaceous (about 82–66 million years ago) |
| Where: | Worldwide (Europe, North America, South America, Africa) |
| What: | Mosasaur squamate (marine reptile) |
| Weight: | Estimated around 15 metric tons |
| Length: | Approximately 12–17 meters (39–56 feet) |
| Diet: | Carnivorous (ate fish, marine reptiles, and other marine animals) |
| Discovered: | First described by William Conybeare in 1822 |
It belonged to a group of reptiles called mosasaurs, which are closely related to modern monitor lizards and snakes.
Mosasaurus was one of the largest and most powerful predators of its time, measuring up to 18 meters (59 feet) in length.
Mosasaurus had a long, streamlined body with a strong, muscular tail that helped it swim swiftly through the water.
Its jaws were filled with sharp, conical teeth designed for gripping and tearing apart its prey, which included fish, squid, and even other marine reptiles.
Its flippers allowed it to maneuver with agility, making it a formidable hunter in its ocean habitat.
Fossils of Mosasaurus have been found in various parts of the world, including North America and Europe.