petropedetid

noun

Meaning

An extinct marine reptile belonging to the order Plesiosauria, characterized by a long neck, small head, and paddle-like limbs.

Examples

  • Fossil hunters were thrilled to discover a nearly complete skeleton of a petropedetid.
  • The petropedetid likely preyed on fish and squid in ancient oceans.

Synonyms: plesiosaur, marine reptile, fossil