T-Rex vs. Jurassic Sea Monster

Paleobiologist Dr. Andre Rowe uses CT/surface scanning methods to generate 3D models of dinosaur skulls. “These 3D models,” his bio explains, “can then be tested for their biomechanical properties” and more.

In this video from Nature on PBS, a clip from the BBC documentary Attenborough and the Jurassic Sea Monster, Sir David Attenborough sits down with Rowe, a world-leading expert, to learn more about the recently discovered skull of a powerful marine reptile called a pliosaur.

The 2m (6ft 5in)-long pliosaur fossil was found exposed in the cliffs of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast in 2022. With its discovery, marine life 150 million years ago becomes clear: other animals in its ecosystem would have been no match for this apex predator. From the BBC News:

“Researchers estimate that its bite force would have been in the same range as a T. rex – earning the pliosaur the nickname of ‘sea rex’.”

“Growing to 10-12m in length, the ancient reptile would have powered itself through the ocean using four huge paddle-like limbs.

“So, despite its bulk, it would have moved quickly.

“Passing prey would have been killed with a single bite, and then gulped straight down – scientists think this monster didn’t bother to chew its food.”

And so “the million-dollar question” remains: “In a battle between T. rex and a pliosaur, who’s gonna win?”

The fossil is an important find because, according to Attenborough in the video below, “the skull can reveal more about an animal than any other part of its skeleton.” Watch another documentary clip: Discovering the Secrets of a Jurassic Sea Monster.

On January 2nd, 2024, the Jurassic Sea Monster fossil went on display in the Kimmeridge-based The Etches Collection Museum of Jurassic Marine Life, “a unique, modern museum of amazing fossils – the marine life of Jurassic Dorset.”

Watch Attenborough and the Jurassic Sea Monster on the BBC or Nature on PBS.

Then enjoy more from the Jurassic Coast (map .pdf): Mary Anning, the greatest fossilist the world ever knew.