Nothosaurus

Name meaning:

False lizard

Period of life:

240-210 mya

Period:

Triassic period

Habitat:

Coasts

Taxonomy:

Marine reptiles

Countries:

Triassic period Nothosaurus | 3D Dinopedia

Isanosaurus

Placerias

Nothosaurus (240-210 mya)

Nothosaurus was a remarkable marine reptile that lived more than 240 million years ago, during the Triassic Period. Its remains have been found along the coasts of what are now North Africa, China, Israel, and Russia. The name Nothosaurus translates as “false lizard” — perhaps because it was equally at home both in water and on land.

In appearance, Nothosaurus looked like something between a lizard and a crocodile. Its body reached a length of 3 to 7 metres, with a weight of around 80–150 kilograms. It had an elongated head, a long neck, and sharp, dagger-like teeth, perfectly adapted for seizing slippery prey. Any fish or squid caught in those jaws had virtually no chance of escape.

Nothosaurus fed mainly on fish and other marine animals, but it could also attack small land creatures if they came too close to the water. Its limbs had five fingers connected by webbing, which helped it swim effectively. A powerful, flexible tail acted as its main propeller, allowing it to reach high speeds while hunting.

This ancient reptile spent most of its life in the sea, but from time to time it came ashore — to bask in the sun or rest on rocky beaches. It may have sheltered in coastal caves, avoiding danger or laying eggs.

Scientists believe that the lifespan of different species of Nothosaurus may have varied greatly — from just a few years to half a century. They reached sexual maturity quite quickly: some within only a few months, others by around four years of age.

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