Koepallosuchus

Koepallosuchus is an extinct genus of crocodylomorph that lived during the Late Triassic period, approximately 210 million years ago. Fossils of Koepallosuchus have been discovered in the Czech Republic. It is classified within the family Protosuchidae, a group of early, relatively small, and bipedal or facultatively bipedal crocodylomorphs.

The only known species, Koepallosuchus fetchedonensis, is known from a partial skeleton. This fossil material indicates that Koepallosuchus was a terrestrial or semi-aquatic predator. Its anatomy suggests adaptations for running, with a relatively long tail and hind limbs. Like other early crocodylomorphs, it possessed a more flexible skeleton compared to modern crocodilians.

The discovery of Koepallosuchus provides valuable insights into the early evolution of the crocodylian lineage, highlighting the diversity of forms present during the Triassic. It helps paleontologists understand the ecological niches occupied by these early relatives of modern crocodiles and alligators. The precise phylogenetic relationships of Koepallosuchus within the broader crocodylomorph tree are still a subject of ongoing research and refinement as new fossil evidence emerges.