AI Insight
New research published in a Cambridge University Press journal suggests that plesiosaurs, marine reptiles from the Jurassic period, deliberately swam into river deltas to regurgitate indigestible parts of their prey, such as shells. This behavior is evidenced by fossil findings and parallels modern-day behaviors observed in fur seals and marine crocodiles. The discovery provides insight into the feeding and digestive habits of these extinct marine reptiles.
Why it matters
This research enhances our understanding of plesiosaur ecology and behavior, demonstrating that ancient marine reptiles exhibited complex behavioral adaptations similar to modern marine animals. It also illustrates how paleontological evidence can reveal specific behavioral patterns that are not immediately obvious from skeletal remains alone.
Understand the Science
Plesiosaurs swam into river deltas to vomit up shells and other indigestible elements of their marine meals, suggests new research published by Cambridge University Press. The behavior resembles that of today’s fur seals and marine crocodiles.
Source: Queasy plesiosaurs swam to shore to vomit, Jurassic fossils reveal