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Temnodontosaurus Flipper Fossil Reveals Cartilage Structures for Silent Swimming

Scientists are expanding computational models alongside fossil reexaminations to distinguish whether the flipper evolved for acoustic stealth or swimming efficiency

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Overview

  • A study published July 16 in Nature presents the first-ever soft tissue impressions in a Temnodontosaurus flipper from fragments discovered in Germany in 2009.
  • High-resolution imaging identified serrated trailing edges supported by needlelike cartilage reinforcements, termed chondroderms, unlike any known vertebrate structure.
  • Computer simulations suggest these serrations and parallel ridges can reduce swimming noise by as much as 10 decibels, akin to wearing foam earplugs.
  • Some researchers now question whether the fin’s special features evolved primarily for acoustic stealth or for enhanced speed and maneuverability.
  • The team and other paleontologists are revisiting additional marine reptile specimens and conducting further computational studies to test alternative functional interpretations.