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An almost intact fossilized frame discovered along Dorset's Jurassic Coast has been classified as a previously unknown species of ichthyosaur, a variety of ancient marine reptile that once ruled the oceans.

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

Scientists report that marks on its skull indicate the "blade serpent" may have been killed by a bite to the head, possibly inflicted 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 research document published identifying it as a new species of ichthyosaur.

"I carefully considered about the name," stated ichthyosaur specialist Dr Dean Lomax, who collaborated on the study classifying the skeleton as a new species.

"The name Xiphodracon means sword-like dragon and that is in reference to that extremely elongated, 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 discovered.

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

Unique Characteristics

The "sword dragon" is thought to have been about 3m in length and has several features that have never been observed in other types of ichthyosaur.

• Scientists say the most unusual detail is a fork-shaped bone near its nostril
• The skull has an enormous eye socket
• An extended sword-like nose that it used to consume fish and squid

Existence and Demise

There are also clues 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 disease while the animal was still living," said study contributor Dr Erin Maxwell.

"The skull appears to have been bitten by a large predator - likely a different much larger species of ichthyosaur - providing a reason for demise for this individual. Existence in ancient seas was a risky situation."

Discovery and Analysis

The specimen was found 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 actual number he's discovered is approximately 15, with several of them, including the "sword dragon", proving to be previously unknown types.

Mr Moore says he is intending to commemorate the recent finding but has yet to decide precisely what form the celebration will take.

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

The 'sword dragon' is one of numerous ichthyosaur fossils that have been discovered along Dorset's Jurassic Coast since the initial findings of trailblazing palaeontologist Mary Anning in the early 1800s.