Entity: PLESIOSAUR
Plesiosaurs were large, extinct marine reptiles that lived during the Mesozoic Era. They had dorsoventrally flattened bodies, long necks, and paddle-like limbs. The term 'plesiosaur' is used to refer to the Plesiosauria as a whole, but informally it can specifically indicate the long-necked forms.
Plesiosaur
Etymology
The term 'plesiosaur' is derived from the genus Plesiosaurus.
Definition
A plesiosaur is a large carnivorous marine reptile of the Mesozoic Era with dorsoventrally flattened bodies and limbs modified into flippers.
Historical Context
Plesiosaurs were prominent during the Mesozoic Era and were part of the marine ecosystem as apex predators.
Cultural Significance
Plesiosaurs have captured the imagination of the public and have been featured in various works of fiction and popular culture.
Related Concepts
Plesiosauria, Ichthyosauria, Mosasauria.
See Also
A type of large carnivorous marine reptile of the Mesozoic Era with dorsoventrally flattened bodies and limbs modified into flippers.