Ichthyosaur reconstruction
Ichthyosaurs were by far the best adapted marine reptiles. Their body shape had evolved so differently from land-dwelling, lizard-like reptiles that even the early Triassic representatives were superficially precursors of dolphins. The former legs became perfectly formed steering fins and no longer allowed any activity on land, which is why reproduction was completely transferred to the sea - i.e. direct birth instead of nest building and eggs. The skin was also modified, meaning that apart from vague wrinkles in the preserved soft parts, there is no sign of scales. The skin was tightened by crossed fiber systems and smooth on the outside. Even touching an ichthyosaur would remind us of dolphins.
digital model, 1.6 m, 4.1 kg
