Mahajangasuchidae

Mahajangasuchidae is a family of extinct archosauriforms, a group that includes the ancestors of dinosaurs and crocodilians. They lived during the Late Triassic period, approximately 231 to 201 million years ago, in what is now Madagascar. The family is named after the type genus Mahajangasuchus, which means "Mahajanga lizard" in reference to the type locality.

Mahajangasuchidae is characterized by several unique features, including a long, narrow snout, small teeth, and a distinctive pattern of bone growth. They were likely semi-aquatic or aquatic predators, with adaptations such as a streamlined body and webbed feet. The family includes several genera, with Mahajangasuchus being the most well-known.

The discovery of Mahajangasuchidae has provided valuable insights into the early evolution of archosauriforms and their adaptations to aquatic environments. Their unique features and fossil record have made them an important subject of study for paleontologists. However, due to the limited fossil record and the challenges of working in Madagascar, many aspects of their biology and ecology remain unknown.