Quck answer
A recent study on plesiosaurs has revealed new information on how they used their flippers to swim. By examining the fossilized flippers, researchers were able to determine the range of motion and flexibility in the joints, which suggests that plesiosaurs used their flippers in a rowing motion rather than a flapping motion. This rowing motion allowed them to generate more lift and propulsion, making them efficient swimmers. Additionally, the study found that the flippers were likely used for steering and maneuvering rather than just propulsion. Overall, this study sheds light on the unique evolutionary adaptations of plesiosaurs and their swimming abilities.
Extinct Animals
Plesiosaurs were marine reptiles that lived on Earth’s oceans from 220 to 66 million years ago. All known species had four broad, paddle-like flippers, which made them unique among ocean-going vertebrates. However, researchers have now discovered how the unique body plan of plesiosaurs worked. In a new study published on Aug 30, 2017, an international team of scientists constructed two replica flippers with 3-D printing technology, which were affixed to a custom-built robot and moved around in a tank of water. By releasing colorful dyes into the tank, the scientists tracked the motion of the paddles through water. The scientists found that the most energy-efficient stroke called for both flippers to work together. The study contradicted a 2013 study, which argued that plesiosaurs swam like sea turtles, using their forelimbs to push themselves forward while the rear paddles acted as rudders. The new study showed that by using all four paddles to actively generate thrust, a plesiosaur could move more efficiently. However, the study’s co-authors acknowledged that plesiosaurs probably adjusted their swimming style as the situation called for it, and follow-up research will have to take species-specific data into account.
Now That’s Interesting
Some plesiosaurs gave birth to live young while at sea, instead of laying eggs on beaches. One skeleton belonging to the North American species Polycotylus latippinus was preserved with a fetus inside the body cavity.
FAQ
1. What are plesiosaurs?
Plesiosaurs were a group of long-necked marine reptiles that lived during the Mesozoic Era, from about 250 to 66 million years ago. They had four flippers, a streamlined body, and a long neck with a small head. Plesiosaurs were among the top predators in the oceans, and their fossils have been found all over the world.
2. How did plesiosaurs swim?
Scientists have long debated how plesiosaurs used their flippers to swim. Some thought they used a rowing motion, while others suggested a flying motion. The new study found that plesiosaurs used their flippers in a unique way, combining both rowing and flying motions to propel themselves through the water.
3. What did the study find?
The study used computer simulations to analyze the movement of plesiosaur flippers. It found that the flippers moved in a figure-eight pattern, with the front flippers providing lift and the back flippers providing thrust. This allowed plesiosaurs to swim efficiently and maneuver quickly.
4. Why is this study important?
This study sheds light on how plesiosaurs were able to thrive in the oceans for millions of years. It also provides insight into the evolution of marine reptiles and how they adapted to their environment. Understanding how plesiosaurs swam could also have implications for the design of underwater vehicles.
5. Where were the fossils used in the study found?
The fossils used in the study were found in the UK, in a quarry in Dorset. They belonged to a species called Cryptoclidus, which lived about 150 million years ago.
6. How were the fossils analyzed?
The fossils were scanned using a high-resolution CT scanner, which created detailed 3D models of the bones. These models were then used in the computer simulations to analyze the movement of the flippers.
7. What other animals use a similar swimming technique?
Some animals that use a similar swimming technique to plesiosaurs include sea turtles, penguins, and some species of fish. These animals also use their flippers to create lift and thrust, allowing them to move efficiently through the water.
8. Did all plesiosaurs swim the same way?
It is likely that different species of plesiosaurs used slightly different swimming techniques, depending on their size and shape. However, the figure-eight pattern of the flippers is believed to be a common feature among all plesiosaurs.
9. What other research is being done on plesiosaurs?
Scientists are continuing to study plesiosaurs to learn more about their anatomy, behavior, and evolution. Some recent studies have focused on the feeding habits of plesiosaurs and their role in the marine ecosystem. Other studies have looked at the genetics of plesiosaurs to better understand their evolutionary history.
10. Are there any living descendants of plesiosaurs?
No, plesiosaurs went extinct about 66 million years ago, along with the dinosaurs. However, their closest living relatives are thought to be sea turtles and crocodiles.
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