New Elasmosaur Species Discovered in British Columbia | JQJO

Scientists have identified a new species of elasmosaur, *Traskasaura sandrae*, from fossils discovered in British Columbia, Canada. This 39-foot-long marine reptile from the Late Cretaceous period possesses a unique blend of ancient and modern features, showcasing convergent evolution. Its distinctive jaw, neck, and flippers, along with robust teeth ideal for crushing prey like ammonites, suggest a unique hunting style. The discovery, detailed in the *Journal of Systematic Palaeontology*, resolves a long-standing taxonomic puzzle and designates *Traskasaura sandrae* as British Columbia's Provincial Fossil.