**Actiosaurus: The Coast Lizard**
Actiosaurus is a name that means “coast lizard.” It is an extinct type of reptile that lived during the Late Triassic period, around 210 million years ago. This reptile was first described by a scientist named Henri Sauvage in 1883, based on fossils found in France.
**What We Know About Actiosaurus**
The main species of Actiosaurus is called A. gaudryi. However, there is not much information about this reptile, and it is considered a “nomen dubium,” meaning its classification is uncertain.
When Actiosaurus was first discovered, scientists thought it was a dinosaur. But later, in 1908, it was believed to be an ichthyosaur, which is a type of marine reptile. Today, some researchers think that it might actually be a member of a group called choristoderes, which are reptiles that lived in water and on land.
**Current Understanding**
Due to the lack of clear evidence, Actiosaurus is often referred to as a “species inquirenda,” meaning we need more information to understand it fully. The bones of A. gaudryi share similarities with those of choristoderes, supporting this idea.
In summary, Actiosaurus is an ancient mystery. Its history teaches us that our understanding of dinosaurs and ancient reptiles continues to grow as new discoveries are made.