NextPrevious

Evolution of the Dinosaurs

Dinosaur Ancestors

Did some reptiles return to the oceans?

Yes, as the reptiles spread out over the land, some of them returned to the water. Over a period of time, they evolved and adapted to the water again. Their legs gradually evolved back into fins and flippers; eyes adapted to seeing underwater; and bodies became streamlined for better speed in the water. In addition, they could no longer lay their eggs on land. Thus, they evolved a way of producing living young within their bodies, a process called ovoviviparous. The Ichthyosaurs, or “fish lizards,” were the most fishlike true reptiles.



Though it looks much like modern fish do today, the Ichthyosaur was still a reptile, and one of the first true reptiles to live in the water exclusively (iStock).
Close

This is a web preview of the "The Handy Dinosaur Answer Book" app. Many features only work on your mobile device. If you like what you see, we hope you will consider buying. Get the App