Eryopidae

Eryopidae is an extinct family of temnospondyl amphibians that lived during the Permian period. These were typically large, robust amphibians, often reaching lengths of over two meters. Their skull morphology was characterized by a broad, flattened shape with prominent dermal ornamentation, suggesting a heavily armored head. Eryopids possessed powerful jaws equipped with sharp teeth, indicating they were likely active predators, preying on fish and smaller vertebrates. Their limbs were relatively short and stout, and their bodies were long and somewhat flattened, suggesting a semi-aquatic lifestyle. They are believed to have inhabited freshwater environments such as rivers and lakes. The Eryopidae family is considered a basal group within the Temnospondyli, and their fossils are found primarily in North America and Europe. Their extinction is thought to be linked to environmental changes occurring at the end of the Permian period. Examples of genera within Eryopidae include Eryops and Eryopoides.