The Ancient Mesosaurus

Front

What does the name 'Mesosaurus' mean?

Back

Middle lizard

Front

How long did Mesosaurus grow to?

Back

About 1 meter (3.3 feet) long.

Front

What are fossils?

Back

The mineralized remains of organisms, showing how long-dead organisms lived and how their bodies were structured.

Front

Where have Mesosaurus fossils been found?

Back

South America and Africa.

Front

True or False: Mesosaurus were among the first reptiles to live in and around water, but their bodies weren't built for swimming long distances.

Back

True.

Front

What type of feet did Mesosaurus have?

Back

Webbed feet.

Front

In which geological period did Mesosaurus live?

Back

During the Early Permian period.

Front

What type of environment did Mesosaurus inhabit?

Back

Freshwater environments.

Front

What is the significance of Mesosaurus in paleontology?

Back

It provides evidence for continental drift due to its fossils being found in widely separated continents.

Front

What type of animal is Mesosaurus classified as?

Back

A reptile.