Researchers have discovered a new species of ancient reptile named Breugnathair elgolensis on the Isle of Skye in Scotland.
It is one of the oldest, relatively complete lizard fossils, dating back 167 million years, and helps scientists better understand the origins of snakes during the Jurassic period.
According to a study published in the journalNature, this mysterious lizard had hooked, snake-like teeth for hunting prey 167 million years ago. The newly discovered species is named in honour of the creature’s confusing anatomy and the Elgol area of southern Skye.
Breugnathair elgolensis was only about 16 inches (41centimeters) in length; yet this still made it one of the largest lizards in its ecosystem.
Scientists surmised that it hunted smaller lizards, early mammals, and even young dinosaurs, such as herbivorous heterodontosaurids and predatory bird-like paravians.
Currently, researchers have a fragmentary understanding of early lizard and snake evolution. These animals belong to a group called Squamata, which emerged about 190 million years ago.
A professor of vertebrate morphology and palaeontology at the University College London said in an official statement, “The Jurassic fossil deposits on the Isle of Skye are part of our understanding of the early evolution of many living groups, including lizards, which were beginning their diversification around this time.”
The current study challenges and enhances understanding of early evolution, and the discovery provides vital information to clarify the complex diversification and the origin of limbless snakes.