Researchers have discovered a unique species of crocodile related to crocodile Chinese (Chinese alligator), the only living representative of a group Alligatoridae outside the Americas. According to scientists, the animal lived about 230 thousand years ago in Thailand.
The skull of the reptile is almost complete, but some elements are missing on the right side. Researchers found the bones at Ban Si Liam, in the Thai province of Nakhon Ratchasima. The study was Published in the journal Scientific reportson July 13.
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Scientists note that the new species bears a striking resemblance to the modern Chinese crocodile. These animals likely had a common ancestor, but geological changes on the Tibetan plateau more than 23 million years ago caused the species to diverge.
How did scientists discover the unique species of crocodile?
Paleontologist Gustavo Darlem, of the University of Tübingen, and his team investigated the evolutionary relationships between Crocodile monensis with other species. They compared the fossil to 19 other extinct crocodile species, as well as specimens Mississippi alligatorChinese crocodile and crocodile special (Cayman crocodile).
Thus, experts discovered many unique features of the skull Crocodile monensissuch as a broad and short snout, a high skull, a reduced number of dental sockets and nostrils located far from the tip of the snout.
Scientists have also noticed deeper cavities in the teeth Crocodile monensis. This predator likely had huge strong teeth capable of cracking shells, so it could feed on its hard-shelled prey.
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