**New Jurassic-Era Marine Reptile Species Discovered in England** A new species of marine reptile from the Jurassic era has been identified in England. Named Xiphodracon goldencapensis, this ichthyosaur lived approximately 190 million years ago during the Early Jurassic period. The discovery was detailed in a study published in the journal *Papers in Palaeontology*. The fossils were unearthed in 2001 by fossil collector Chris Moore at Golden Cap in Charmouth, a region along the English Channel known for its rich fossil deposits. Judy Massare, a Professor Emerita of Geology at SUNY Brockport and co-author of the study, noted that the area is part of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fossil set includes a nearly complete skull featuring a large eye socket and a distinctive long, sword-like snout. According to a statement from The University of Manchester, the fossil is exceptionally well-preserved in three dimensions. Although the specimen was on display at the Royal Ontario Museum in Canada, it was not until the fall of 2024 that researchers began a detailed analysis. During their examination, the researchers identified several unique features that set this ichthyosaur apart from others of its time. Massare pointed out that the bones surrounding the external nostrils were unusual, and the nasal opening was more rounded than oval. The ichthyosaur also had a long, slender snout and very narrow teeth, suggesting it primarily fed on soft, small prey, such as squid-like animals. Massare indicated that the fossil's stomach contents included fish-like and cephalopod remains. Ichthyosaurs, which are not dinosaurs, were known for their dolphin-like bodies and long snouts. They were active predators in the ocean, swimming with a side-to-side tail motion. The X. goldencapensis specimen is estimated to have been nearly 10 feet long. Dean Lomax, an honorary researcher at The University of Manchester and lead author of the study, stated that ichthyosaurs from the Pliensbachian period are incredibly rare. Lomax described the find as a significant addition to the ichthyosaur evolutionary record, noting that the fossil represents a nearly complete prehistoric reptile from this period. He explained that the name Xiphodracon translates to "sword-like dragon," referencing both the long snout and the historical term "sea dragon" used for ichthyosaurs. The discovery of X. goldencapensis contributes to the understanding of ichthyosaur diversity and evolution, as thousands of ichthyosaur fossils have been found worldwide, particularly along the U.K.'s Jurassic Coast. Massare emphasized that while ichthyosaurs are found globally, the English specimens have been the most extensively studied. The research findings were published on Friday, and the fossil is expected to be displayed at the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto, Canada, in the near future.