Ancient bones found 100 years ago belong to undiscovered species (video at link)

Prehistoric bones discovered more than a century ago belong to a previously-undiscovered species of ocean predator, research has revealed.

The partial skeleton, including a jawbone and teeth, has been identified as belonging to a group of ancient crocodiles that were similar to dolphins.

An amateur palaeontologist found the specimen in a clay pit near Peterborough in the early 1900s, and it has since been held by The Hunterian Museum at the University of Glasgow.

The newly confirmed species, which was examined by a team of experts led by the University of Edinburgh, helps scientists better understand how marine reptiles were evolving about 165 million years ago.

The animal's pointed, serrated teeth and large gaping jaw meant it would have been suited to feeding on large-bodied prey.

Researchers said it represents a missing link between marine crocodiles that fed on small prey, and others that were similar to modern-day killer whales, which fed on larger prey.

more here: http://local.stv.tv/edinburgh/211576-ancient-bones-found-100-years-ago-belong-to-undiscovered-species/