Dolichosaurus is a genus of extinct reptile that lived during the early Jurassic period. It is pronounced /doʊlɪkoʊˈsɔrəs/, with the stress on the second syllable. The first part of the word comes from the Greek word "dolichos," which means "long" or "slender," while the second part is derived from the word "saurus," which means "lizard." Therefore, the name Dolichosaurus translates to "long lizard," which is a fitting name for this reptile with a slender body and elongated tail.
Dolichosaurus is a genus of prehistoric marine reptiles that existed during the Early Jurassic period. The name "Dolichosaurus" is derived from Greek, where "dolichos" means "long" and "sauros" means "lizard," highlighting the characteristic elongated body of this creature.
The Dolichosaurus is classified within the reptile order known as Ichthyosaurs, which were ancient marine reptiles that resembled fish and dolphins, adapting to a fully aquatic lifestyle. These reptiles evolved streamlined bodies with elongated, tapered snouts, allowing them to swiftly maneuver through the water in search of prey, similar to modern-day predatory marine animals.
The Dolichosaurus is characterized by its long, slender body, comprising a flexible tail, four flippers, and a streamlined head. It possessed numerous sharp teeth, perfectly adapted for gripping and tearing apart its preferred diet of fish and other small marine creatures. The eyes of the Dolichosaurus were large, enabling excellent vision underwater.
This ancient reptile is predominantly known from fossil remains, primarily discovered in Europe, particularly in England. The fossil evidence of Dolichosaurus provides valuable insight into the evolution and diversity of marine reptiles during the Early Jurassic, contributing to our understanding of the complex ecosystems that existed millions of years ago.
In conclusion, Dolichosaurus is an extinct genus of marine reptiles characterized by its elongated body, streamlined features, and sharp teeth, which thrived during the Early Jurassic period.
In geol., a snake-like fossil reptile, of about three feet in length, found in the chalk formation.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Dolichosaurus" has its roots in Greek. It is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "dolichos", which means "long" or "extended", and "sauros", which means "lizard" or "reptile". Therefore, the etymology of "Dolichosaurus" can be understood as "long lizard" or "extended reptile", likely referring to the long body shape of the dinosaur.