Fossils of a herbivorous reptile species dating back approximately 170 million years have been discovered in the Three Gorges Reservoir area of Yunyang County in southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality, according to the municipal bureau of geology and minerals exploration.
The reptile, believed to have lived during the early Middle Jurassic period, had a head about the size of an apple and boasted three rows of large teeth. Wang Ping, a researcher at the bureau, stated that this significant discovery provides valuable insights into the diversity of prehistoric life that once flourished in the region.
The Three Gorges area, renowned for its rich geological formations and extensive fossil records, continues to be a focal point for paleontological research. This latest find adds to a growing collection of fossils that help scientists piece together the ecological history of the area during the Jurassic period.
Experts anticipate that further analysis of the fossil will shed light on the evolutionary adaptations of herbivorous reptiles and their roles within the ancient ecosystems. The discovery underscores the importance of ongoing exploration and preservation efforts in China’s fossil-rich regions.
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Prehistoric reptile fossil found in China's Three Gorges area
cgtn.com
