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A nearly complete fossilized frame discovered along Dorset's Jurassic Coast has been identified as a previously unknown species of ichthyosaur, a variety of prehistoric marine reptile that once ruled the oceans.

The dolphin-sized ichthyosaur has been named Xiphodracon goldencapensis, or the "blade serpent of Dorset" and represents the sole documented example of its type.

Researchers report that indentations on its skull suggest the "sword dragon" may have been killed by a bite to the head, potentially delivered by a much larger species of ichthyosaur.

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

It has only recently been fully analyzed by specialists and a paper released classifying it as a previously unknown type of ichthyosaur.

"I thought long and hard about the name," stated ichthyosaur specialist Dr Dean Lomax, who collaborated on the paper classifying the skeleton as a new species.

"The name Xiphodracon means sword-like dragon and that refers to that very long, sword-like nose, 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. The discovered ichthyosaur is believed to have inhabited the oceans about 185 million years ago, a period from which extremely rare ichthyosaur remains have been found.

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

Distinctive Features

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

• Scientists report the strangest feature is a prong-like bone near its nose opening
• The skull has an enormous eye socket
• An extended sword-like nose that it used to consume fish and squid

Existence and Demise

Evidence also exists as to how this specific individual lived and died.

"Its fins and dental structure are malformed in such a way that points to serious injury or illness while the creature was still alive," said study co-author Dr Erin Maxwell.

"Its head seems to have been attacked by a large predator - probably a different much larger type of ichthyosaur - providing a reason for demise for this specimen. Life in the Mesozoic oceans was a dangerous prospect."

Discovery and Analysis

This "sword dragon" was discovered in 2001 by fossil hunter 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 mean to boast but I have found a few of them," Mr Moore stated.

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

The discoverer stated he is planning to celebrate the new discovery but has yet to decide exactly how the recognition will take.

"Champagne or a mug of tea, I'm not sure which yet," 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.