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A nearly complete fossilized frame found along the Jurassic Coast has been identified as a new kind of ichthyosaur, a type of ancient marine reptile that once dominated the oceans.

The dolphin-sized ichthyosaur has been named Xiphodracon goldencapensis, or the "blade serpent of Dorset" and stands as the only known specimen of its type.

Researchers state that marks on its skull suggest the "sword dragon" may have been fatally wounded by a attack to the head, potentially inflicted by a much larger type of ichthyosaur.

First discovered by a experienced fossil hunter at Golden Cap in Dorset in 2001, the recently identified ichthyosaur was later obtained by a institution in Canada.

Only in recent times been fully analyzed by specialists and a research document released identifying it as a new species of ichthyosaur.

"I carefully considered about the name," said ichthyosaur specialist Dr Dean Lomax, who co-authored the study identifying the fossil as a new species.

"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."

Prehistoric Ocean Creatures

These creatures are categorized as marine reptiles, not dinosaurs, because they spent their lives in the water. This particular ichthyosaur is believed to have inhabited the oceans about 185 million years ago, a period from which very few ichthyosaur remains have been discovered.

"During this time ichthyosaurs are extremely uncommon, and Xiphodracon is the most complete individual ever found from there, contributing to close a gap," Dr Lomax stated. "It's a missing piece of the puzzle in ichthyosaur development."

Unique Characteristics

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

• Scientists report the most unusual feature is a prong-like bone near its nose opening
• Its head has an enormous eye socket
• A long sword-like snout that it used to consume fish and squid

Life and Death

Evidence also exists as to how this particular specimen existed and perished.

"Its fins and dental structure are abnormally shaped in such a way that indicates significant trauma or disease while the animal was still living," said study co-author Dr Erin Maxwell.

"Its head seems to have been attacked by a large predator - likely a different much larger species of ichthyosaur - providing a cause of death 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 obtained by the Royal Ontario Museum in Canada where it required more than 15 years to be fully analyzed.

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

The precise count he's discovered is somewhere in the region of 15, with several of them, including the "sword dragon", 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 recognition will take.

"Either sparkling wine or traditional brew, I'm undecided at this moment," he says.

This remarkable discovery is among many ichthyosaur fossils that have been found along Dorset's Jurassic Coast since the initial findings of trailblazing palaeontologist Mary Anning in the early 1800s.