Superb Juvenile Triassic Keichousaur Fossil

Description: This is a fine example of a semiaquatic reptile from the Triasssic of China known as Keichousaurus hui. The Keichosaurs were members of the Pachypleurisauridae, and as such were related to their contemporaries the Nothosaurs (indeed, at one point they were referred to the Nothosauridae). They are thought to have been a bridge between the Placodonts and the later Plesiosaurs. The genus derives its name from the 1957 location in Keichow Province where they were first discovered. With a maximum size of ~ 300 mm, this one is a juvenile some 50% larger than a neonate. The Keichousaurs were thought to be able to make their way on land by virtue of their strong limbs (note the robust ulna). Some believe they lived in a marshy environment. The Pachypleurosaurs are believed to have evolved in China, making their way to Europe via the northern border of the Tethys Sea. None of the later European members of the family had the massive limb bones seen in Keichousaurus. Specimens with such superb preservation are not often seen. Compare this to the carved examples seen elsewhere. Note the teeth still in their sockets. The only flaw is a repaired crack which passes throuth the distal fourth of the tail.