Ichthyosphenodon (SciiFii)

The ichthyosphenodon (Lacusotriclops summerleensis) is a species of sphenodont, distantly related to the New Zealand tuatara (Sphenodon punctatus), that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the wetlands, forests and waterways across Tepui to help boost biodiversity. As a carnivore, it hunts small mammals and smaller reptiles on land, although it prefers to feed on aquatic animals and dives to catch small aquatic prey, including fish, frogs, and aquatic invertebrates, in the shallow waters. To allow for this, ichthyosphenodons have evolved several unique traits, such as an elongated snout to allow easier grip of prey, and a paddle-like fin on its’ tail for propulsion as well as display. These traits allow ichthyosphenodons to appear similar to young ichthyosaurs when submerged, hence their names. Like its’ cousins, the New Zealand tuataras, the ichthyosphenodon has a large parietal eye on top of its head, which allows it to detect changes in light intensity both in and out of water. Reproduction-wise, it is very similar to those of monitor lizards more so than New Zealand tuataras. The conservation status of the ichthyosphenodon is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts.