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‘The fact that these beautiful ichthyosaurs are so well preserved in a harsh environment, revealed by a retreating glacier, is unique anyplace else in the world,’ said Dr. Dean Lomax, a paleontologist collaborating on the project.

‘The significant quantity of ichthyosaurs recovered in the area, including entire skeletons of adults, juveniles, and neonates, gives a unique insight into the past,’ says the study.

Ichthyosaurs were dinosaur-era sea reptiles known for their fish-like morphology, similar to today’s dolphins.

Fiona’s bones were discovered during a March and April 2022 trip to the Tyndall Glacier.

The glacier is a 10-hour trek or horseback ride distant, making collection very challenging.

The voyage lasted 31 days and was regarded as a “nearly titanic task” by the researchers.

The ichthyosaur is the sole documented and removed pregnant female of Valanginian-Hauterivian age (between 129 and 139 million years old from the Early Cretaceous).

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