Syrian fossil reveals new sea turtle species

phys.org

A previously unknown fossil sea turtle species, Syriemys lelunensis, has been discovered near Afrin, Syria. The 50-million-year-old fossil is the first new fossil vertebrate species described from Syria and provides evidence for the ancient Stereogenyini side-necked turtles. The find contributes to understanding the distribution of this extinct turtle group and highlights Syria's paleontological potential despite current challenges.


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