ICHTHYOSAURUS SKULL DISPLAY Temnodontosaurus Jurassic Lyme... Lot 25

ICHTHYOSAURUS SKULL DISPLAY Temnodontosaurus Jurassic Lyme Regis, Dorset, England Dramatic display of a rare Ichthyosaur species, Temnodontosaurus, featuring a large skull along with most of the cervical and thoracic vertebrae, ribs and both paddles. All in a semi articulated state, extremely well preserved and professionally exposed in high relief. Ichthyosaurs are important in the field of evolutionary biology. Their fossils help demonstrate vertebrate adaptation from aquatic origins to terrestrial life and back to aquatic existence over millions of years. Of all known reptiles, ichthyosaurs were most completely adapted to their environment, filling the same ecological niche as today's dolphin. Overall measuring: 34 3/4 x 61 x 3 1/2 in. (88.3 x 154.9 x 8.9 cm)