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An almost intact fossilized frame discovered along the Jurassic Coast has been identified as a previously unknown kind of ichthyosaur, a variety of prehistoric marine reptile that once ruled the oceans.

The dolphin-sized ichthyosaur has been named Xiphodracon goldencapensis, or the "sword dragon of Dorset" and stands as the sole documented specimen of its kind.

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

Initially found by a experienced fossil hunter at Golden Cap in Dorset in 2001, the new ichthyosaur was later obtained by a museum in Canada.

Only in recent times been completely studied by experts and a research document released identifying it as a previously unknown type of ichthyosaur.

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

"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 lived entirely in the water. This particular ichthyosaur is believed to have swum the seas about 185 million years ago, a time frame from which extremely rare ichthyosaur fossils have been found.

"In this period ichthyosaurs are incredibly rare, and Xiphodracon is the most complete individual ever discovered from there, helping to fill a gap," Dr Lomax stated. "It's a missing piece of the mystery in ichthyosaur development."

Unique Characteristics

Researchers estimate the creature measured about 3m in length and has several characteristics that have not been seen in other types of ichthyosaur.

• Researchers say the most unusual detail is a prong-like bone near its nostril
• The skull has an exceptionally large 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 lived and died.

"Its fins and dental structure are malformed in such a way that indicates serious injury or disease while the animal was still alive," stated study contributor Dr Erin Maxwell.

"The skull seems to have been attacked by a large predator - likely another much larger species of ichthyosaur - giving us a cause of death for this individual. Life in the Mesozoic oceans 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 number of them," Mr Moore said.

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

The discoverer stated he is planning to celebrate the recent finding but has yet to decide exactly how the celebration will take.

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

The 'sword dragon' is one of numerous 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.