Tylosaurus proriger Tooth-Texas

Taxa: Tylosaurus proriger

Geology: Ozan formation

Age: Cretaceous

Locality: Fannin County, Texas

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Tylosaurus

Tylosaurus was a large, marine reptile belonging to the mosasaur family that lived during the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 85 to 66 million years ago. It was one of the top predators in its ecosystem, capable of reaching lengths of up to 40-50 feet.

Tylosaurus had a streamlined, elongated body, powerful paddle-like limbs for swimming, and a long tail for propulsion. Its most distinctive feature was a pointed, bony snout, which may have been used for ramming prey or defending itself. Its jaws were equipped with sharp, conical teeth, perfect for catching and devouring a variety of prey, including fish, sharks, marine reptiles, and even other mosasaurs.

This apex predator dominated the oceans of what is now North America and is often compared to modern-day orcas and crocodiles in terms of its predatory role. Fossil evidence suggests it had a diverse diet and was a highly adaptable hunter.