Rhino-sized giant tortoise found in Spain is one of the largest in Earth’s history

Specimens of one of the largest sea turtles, measuring up to 4 meters long, have been found in Spanish waters. Archaeologists have recently found specimens of Archelo – a tortoise that became extinct around 66 million years ago towards the end of the Late Cretaceous.

There aren’t any turtles the size of rhinos that didn’t go extinct 66 million years ago. (Photo: Iflscieпce).

This is said to be one of the largest sea turtles on earth, scientifically known as Leviathaochelys aeigmatica. Specifically, “Leviatha” is the name of the biblical sea animal Leviatha, used by sea turtles because of its enormous size.

According to the study results, the archelo tortoise specimen showed that it could grow up to 4 meters in length, which is the size of a rhinoceros. zzz. The sample was recovered in the Cal Torrades area, located north of Spai. It is believed to have been hiding in the water for around 80 million years.

In addition to the amazing size, the researchers also discovered many aatomic features on the specimen’s pelvis and carapace, which surprised them. Some have even indicated that they are looking for a new species, and possibly a new group of turtles.

The size of the aпcieпt tortoise Charcheloп compared to Hυmas. (Photo: Iflscieпce).

The enormous size of this turtle is an example of common evolution. In fact, to this day, the same trait is found in the world’s giant tortoises, found in North and South America. zzz

According to the study’s authors, the discovery of the world’s largest specimen of a sea turtle sheds light on the diversity of sea turtles and the evolutionary trend towards “gigantization” of sea turtle groups in the region. Europe in particular and the Cretaceous in general.

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