Westphalian pleiosaurs

The ‘Westphalian pleiosaurs’ comprise four genera and represent a globally unique cross-section of an evolutionary path that lasted around 135 million years. Pleiosaurs are a classic example of land vertebrates (tetrapods) that subsequently adapted to life in water, as has also happened to varying degrees with some other species such as crocodiles, pangolins, etc. On the other hand, pleiosaurs, with their four fin-like limbs, are evidence of unique innovations.  

Four skeletons, presented in three Westphalian museums, have been researched with the significant participation of citizen scientists. As so-called holotypes, all four fossils served to define newer genera and have thus significantly expanded our knowledge of past biodiversity. A good 200 years after the first mention of plesiosaurs, the ‘Westphalian plesiosaurs’ are bringing this fascinating group of animals into focus as the Fossil of the Year 2026.

Learn more about the Fossil of the Year 2026.

Text source: Website of the Palaeontological Society