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An almost intact fossilized frame found along Dorset's Jurassic Coast has been identified as a previously unknown species of ichthyosaur, a type of prehistoric marine reptile that once dominated the oceans.

This marine creature ichthyosaur has been named Xiphodracon goldencapensis, or the "blade serpent of Dorset" and stands as the only known specimen of its type.

Scientists state that indentations on its skull suggest the "sword dragon" may have been fatally wounded by a bite to the head, potentially delivered by a significantly bigger species of ichthyosaur.

Initially found by a prolific fossil collector at Golden Cap in Dorset in 2001, the new ichthyosaur was subsequently obtained by a institution in Canada.

Only in recent times been fully analyzed by specialists and a research document published classifying it as a previously unknown type of ichthyosaur.

"I carefully considered about the name," stated ichthyosaur specialist Dr Dean Lomax, who collaborated on the paper classifying the fossil as a novel type.

"The name Xiphodracon means sword-like dragon and that is in reference to that very long, sword-like snout, but also the reality that ichthyosaurs have been referred to as sea dragons for about 200 years."

Ancient Marine Life

Ichthyosaurs are classified as marine reptiles, rather than dinosaurs, because they spent their lives in the water. The discovered ichthyosaur is thought to have inhabited the oceans about 185 million years ago, a time frame from which extremely rare ichthyosaur remains have been discovered.

"In this period ichthyosaurs are extremely uncommon, and Xiphodracon is the most complete individual ever found from there, helping to fill a gap," Dr Lomax stated. "This represents a crucial element of the puzzle in ichthyosaur development."

Distinctive Features

Researchers estimate the creature measured about 3m in length and has multiple features that have not been seen in other species of ichthyosaur.

• Researchers report the most unusual detail is a fork-shaped bone near its nostril
• Its head has an exceptionally large eye socket
• A long sword-like nose that it used to eat fish and squid

Existence and Demise

Evidence also exists as to how this specific individual lived and died.

"The limb bones and teeth are abnormally shaped in such a way that indicates significant trauma or illness while the creature was still living," stated study co-author Dr Erin Maxwell.

"Its head appears to have been attacked by a sizeable hunter - likely another considerably bigger species of ichthyosaur - giving us a reason for demise for this specimen. Existence in ancient seas was a dangerous prospect."

Finding and Study

The specimen was found in 2001 by paleontology enthusiast Chris Moore and then acquired by the Royal Ontario Museum in Canada where it required more than 15 years to be completely studied.

"I don't wish to blow my own ichthyosaur trumpet but I have found a few of them," Mr Moore said.

The actual number he's discovered is approximately 15, with several of them, like the "blade serpent", turning out to be new species.

The discoverer stated he is intending to commemorate the recent finding but has not yet determined precisely what form the celebration will take.

"Either sparkling wine or traditional brew, I'm not sure which yet," he commented.

The 'sword dragon' is among many ichthyosaur remains that have been found along Dorset's Jurassic Coast since the first discoveries of pioneering palaeontologist Mary Anning in the beginning of the nineteenth century.