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A nearly complete skeleton discovered along Dorset's Jurassic Coast has been classified as a new species of ichthyosaur, a type of ancient marine reptile that once dominated the oceans.

This marine creature ichthyosaur has been named Xiphodracon goldencapensis, or the "blade serpent of Dorset" and represents the only known example of its kind.

Researchers state that marks on its cranium indicate the "sword dragon" may have been killed by a bite to the head, potentially inflicted by a significantly bigger type of ichthyosaur.

Initially found by a experienced 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 experts and a paper released identifying it as a new species of ichthyosaur.

"I carefully considered about the name," stated ichthyosaur expert Dr Dean Lomax, who co-authored the study identifying the fossil as a novel type.

"The name Xiphodracon means sword-like dragon and that refers to that very long, sword-like nose, but also the fact that ichthyosaurs have been called sea dragons for about 200 years."

Ancient Marine Life

These creatures are categorized as marine reptiles, rather than dinosaurs, because they spent their lives in the water. The discovered ichthyosaur is believed to have swum the seas about 185 million years ago, a time frame from which extremely rare ichthyosaur remains have been found.

"In this period ichthyosaurs are incredibly rare, and Xiphodracon is the best preserved individual ever discovered from there, contributing to close a gap," Dr Lomax said. "This represents a crucial element of the mystery 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.

• Researchers say the strangest detail is a prong-like bone near its nose opening
• Its head has an enormous eye socket
• A long sword-like nose that it used to consume fish and squid

Existence and Demise

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

"The limb bones and teeth are malformed in such a way that indicates serious injury or disease while the creature was still living," said study contributor Dr Erin Maxwell.

"The skull seems to have been attacked by a large predator - likely another much larger species of ichthyosaur - providing a reason for demise for this individual. Existence in ancient seas was a dangerous situation."

Finding and Study

This "sword dragon" was discovered 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 completely studied.

"I don't mean to boast but I have discovered a few of them," Mr Moore stated.

The precise count he's discovered is somewhere in the region of 15, with several of them, like the "blade serpent", proving to be previously unknown types.

The discoverer stated he is intending to commemorate the new discovery but has yet to decide precisely what form the celebration will take.

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

The 'sword dragon' is among many ichthyosaur fossils that have been found along Dorset's Jurassic Coast since the initial findings of pioneering palaeontologist Mary Anning in the early 1800s.