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An almost intact skeleton discovered along the Jurassic Coast has been classified as a previously unknown species of ichthyosaur, a type of ancient marine reptile that once ruled the oceans.

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

Scientists state that marks on its skull suggest the "blade serpent" may have been killed by a attack to the head, possibly delivered by a much larger species of ichthyosaur.

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

It has only recently been completely studied by experts and a paper released classifying it as a previously unknown type of ichthyosaur.

"I thought long and hard about the name," said ichthyosaur expert Dr Dean Lomax, who co-authored the paper classifying the skeleton as a new species.

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

Ancient Marine Life

Ichthyosaurs are classified as marine reptiles, not dinosaurs, because they lived entirely in the water. This particular ichthyosaur is thought to have inhabited the oceans about 185 million years ago, a time frame from which extremely rare ichthyosaur remains have been discovered.

"In this period ichthyosaurs are extremely uncommon, and Xiphodracon is the most complete individual ever discovered from there, helping to fill a gap," Dr Lomax stated. "This represents a crucial element of the puzzle in ichthyosaur development."

Distinctive Features

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

• Scientists report the strangest detail is a fork-shaped 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 individual existed and perished.

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

"The skull seems to have been bitten by a large predator - likely a different much larger species of ichthyosaur - providing a reason for demise for this specimen. Life in the Mesozoic oceans was a dangerous situation."

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 completely studied.

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

The precise count he's unearthed is approximately 15, with several of them, including the "blade serpent", proving to be previously unknown types.

The discoverer stated he is intending to commemorate the recent finding 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.

This remarkable discovery is among many ichthyosaur fossils that have been discovered along Dorset's Jurassic Coast dating back to the initial findings of pioneering palaeontologist Mary Anning in the beginning of the nineteenth century.