Esquelétiques

Esquelétiques are a group of extinct marine reptiles that lived during the Late Triassic and Early Jurassic periods, approximately 230 to 180 million years ago. They are known for their distinctive, elongated skulls and are considered to be one of the earliest groups of marine reptiles. Esquelétiques are characterized by their long, slender bodies, paddle-like limbs, and a long, whip-like tail. They were semi-aquatic creatures, spending much of their time in the water but also capable of moving on land.

The name "esquelétique" comes from the French word "esquélète," which means "skeleton" or "skeletal." This name was given to these reptiles because their fossils are often found as isolated bones, rather than complete skeletons. The most well-known genus of esquelétique is Erythrosuchus, which was discovered in Argentina and is known for its long, slender skull and paddle-like limbs.

Esquelétiques are believed to have been active predators, using their long, whip-like tails to propel themselves through the water and their sharp teeth to catch prey. They are thought to have been an important part of the marine ecosystems of their time, and their fossils provide valuable insights into the evolution of marine reptiles and the early history of the oceans.