Dendroherpetidae

Dendroherpetidae is a family of extinct amphibians that lived during the Carboniferous period. These animals are known from fossil remains found in Europe and North America. The name Dendroherpetidae suggests a relationship with tree-dwelling or arboreal forms, and their skeletal features indicate a terrestrial lifestyle, though some may have been semi-aquatic. They belong to the order Temnospondyli, a diverse group of extinct amphibians that included many aquatic and semi-aquatic species. However, dendroherpetids exhibit characteristics that distinguish them from their more aquatic relatives. Their limbs were relatively robust, suggesting adaptations for locomotion on land. The skull morphology of Dendroherpetidae varies among species, but generally displays a broad, flattened shape. Fossil evidence indicates they possessed a range of sizes, with some being quite small and others reaching larger proportions. Their diet likely consisted of small invertebrates and possibly other small vertebrates. The precise evolutionary relationships and ecological roles of Dendroherpetidae within the broader context of early tetrapod evolution are still subjects of ongoing research. The discovery of new fossil specimens continues to refine our understanding of this extinct amphibian family.