Archegosuchus

Archegosuchus is an extinct genus of crocodylomorph that lived during the Early Cretaceous period. Fossils of Archegosuchus have been discovered in the United States, specifically in the Chinle Formation of Arizona. This formation is known for its rich assemblage of Late Triassic to Early Cretaceous vertebrates. Archegosuchus is classified within the family Protosuchidae, a group of early crocodylomorphs that represent some of the earliest ancestors of modern crocodiles.

The remains of Archegosuchus are relatively sparse, primarily consisting of cranial fragments and postcranial elements. Based on the available fossil evidence, it is understood to have been a relatively small, terrestrial or semi-terrestrial predator. Its skull possessed a typical pseudosuchian structure, with distinct fenestrae. Like other early crocodylomorphs, Archegosuchus likely walked with its limbs held more directly beneath its body, a departure from the sprawling posture of many later reptiles. Its diet is presumed to have consisted of small vertebrates. The discovery of Archegosuchus contributes to our understanding of the evolutionary diversification of the crocodylomorph lineage during the Mesozoic Era.