Goniopholidae

Goniopholidae is an extinct family of mesosuchian crocodyliforms that lived during the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. These ancient reptiles were characterized by their robust build and often heavily armored bodies. The family is known from fossils found in various parts of the world, including Europe and North America. Goniopholids were a diverse group, with some species exhibiting adaptations for semi-aquatic lifestyles, while others may have been more terrestrial.

The taxonomy of Goniopholidae has undergone revisions over time, with some genera and species being reclassified or considered dubious. Key features used to define the group include the structure of their osteoderms (bony plates embedded in the skin) and their skeletal anatomy. Fossil evidence suggests they occupied a range of ecological niches within their respective environments. The extinction of Goniopholidae, like many other crocodyliform groups, is part of the broader pattern of reptilian evolution and extinction events. The family represents an important lineage in understanding the evolutionary history of crocodiles.