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

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

Researchers state that indentations on its skull indicate the "blade serpent" may have been killed by a attack to the head, possibly inflicted by a much larger species 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 museum in Canada.

It has only recently been fully analyzed by specialists and a research document published identifying it as a new species of ichthyosaur.

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

"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

Ichthyosaurs are classified 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 time frame from which extremely rare ichthyosaur fossils have been found.

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

Unique Characteristics

Researchers estimate the creature measured about 3m in length and has several features that have never been observed in other types of ichthyosaur.

• Researchers report the most unusual detail is a prong-like bone near its nostril
• Its head has an exceptionally large eye socket
• A long sword-like nose that it used to eat fish and squid

Existence and Demise

Evidence also exists as to how this particular specimen lived and died.

"Its fins and dental structure are abnormally shaped in such a way that points to significant trauma or disease while the animal was still living," stated study contributor Dr Erin Maxwell.

"Its head seems to have been attacked by a sizeable hunter - likely another much larger type of ichthyosaur - providing a reason for demise for this individual. Life in the Mesozoic oceans was a risky 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 precise count he's discovered is somewhere in the region of 15, with several of them, like the "sword dragon", turning out to be new species.

Mr Moore says he is planning to celebrate the recent finding but has not yet determined exactly how the celebration will take.

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

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