Metoposaurus

Metoposaurus is an extinct genus of metoposaurid amphibian that lived during the Late Triassic period. These large, crocodile-like amphibians were widespread across what is now North America, Europe, and North Africa. Metoposaurus fossils are often found in great numbers, suggesting they may have lived in large communities, possibly in freshwater environments like lakes and rivers.

The most distinguishing feature of Metoposaurus is its broad, flattened skull, which was triangular in shape. Its eyes were positioned on top of the skull, allowing it to see above the water while remaining mostly submerged. It possessed numerous sharp, conical teeth lining its jaws, ideal for catching and consuming fish, which formed a significant part of its diet. The body of Metoposaurus was stout and supported by four sturdy limbs, ending in webbed feet, further indicating an aquatic or semi-aquatic lifestyle.

Metoposaurids, including Metoposaurus, were among the dominant amphibian groups of the Triassic. Their extinction around the end of the Triassic coincides with a major global extinction event. The exact reasons for their disappearance are debated, but likely involved significant environmental changes, such as shifts in climate and the drying up of their preferred aquatic habitats. Despite their extinction, Metoposaurus remains an important find for understanding amphibian evolution and the fauna of the Triassic period.