Elasmosaurus platyurus

Part of the ANCIENT WATERS Exhibit

Late Cretaceous Period, approx. 80-66 million years ago

1:2 Scale Skull Replica

SPECIMEN PROFILE

Elasmosaurus platyurus was a large marine reptile that inhabited the shallow inland seas covering much of Late Cretaceous North America. As a member of the plesiosaur group, it evolved an extremely elongated neck paired with a compact body and four powerful flippers, creating one of the most distinctive body plans in marine vertebrate history.

Its long, flexible neck contained dozens of vertebrae, allowing for subtle, precise movements used to approach prey without disturbing the surrounding water. The small head housed sharp, conical teeth adapted for capturing fish and soft-bodied marine organisms. Despite its length, the neck was not used for rapid striking but likely functioned as a stealthy feeding extension, enabling Elasmosaurus to exploit prey at a distance from its main body mass.

COLLECTOR & CURATOR NOTE

A striking long-necked marine reptile of the Late Cretaceous—its extreme neck elongation and flipper-driven locomotion represent one of the most specialized body plans in prehistoric ocean ecosystems.

CONSTRUCTION & DISPLAY

Scale

• 1:2, approx. 11.8 in or 30 cm

Fossil Finishes

• Aged Bone: A weathered bone-white aesthetic, evoking exposed skeletal remains and museum restorations.

• Canyon: Warm earth tones and terracotta hues, inspired by fossil beds such as Picketwire and Mill Canyon.

• Fossilized: Deep browns and near-black coloration, replicating the mineral-rich preservation seen in authentic fossil specimens.

Specimen Format

• Unmounted study specimen: A standalone skull, ideal for shelves, cases, or custom display setups.

• Desktop-mounted display specimen: Presented on a handmade desktop stand, crafted from wood with brass furnishings and a custom specimen placard — designed to elevate the specimen as a true exhibit piece.

Medium

• Hand-painted resin