Mary Anning
English paleontologist and fossil collector
Born
Died
1847
179 years ago — 48 years old
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
Born in 1799, contributions to paleontology included significant discoveries along the Jurassic marine fossil beds in Lyme Regis, Dorset. Anning unearthed the first complete Ichthyosaurus skeleton in 1811 and played a vital role in the discovery of Plesiosaurus in 1823. Her work helped to advance the understanding of prehistoric life and laid foundational insights for the field, challenging contemporary scientific thought.
Discovered the first complete Ichthyosaurus skeleton
Unearthed the first Plesiosaurus specimen
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