Platybelodons

Platybelodons is a genus of extinct marine reptiles that lived during the Late Triassic period, approximately 231 to 201 million years ago. They are known from fossil remains found in Europe, particularly in Germany and Switzerland. Platybelodons is characterized by its elongated, flat body, which is believed to have been adapted for a semi-aquatic lifestyle. The name "Platybelodon" comes from the Greek words "platy," meaning broad, and "belodon," meaning flat tooth, referring to the distinctive flat teeth found in this genus.

The fossils of Platybelodons include partial skeletons, skulls, and teeth. The most complete specimen, known as the "Platybelodon" specimen, was discovered in Germany and consists of a nearly complete skull and partial postcranial skeleton. The skull of Platybelodons is distinctive, with large, flat teeth that are adapted for crushing food. The body of Platybelodons was elongated and flat, with a long tail and short limbs, which suggests that it was adapted for swimming or wading in shallow water.

Platybelodons is considered to be a member of the order Erythrosuchia, which includes other extinct marine reptiles such as Erythrosuchus and Stagonolepis. The exact relationship between Platybelodons and other members of Erythrosuchia is still a topic of ongoing research. Despite the limited fossil evidence, Platybelodons provides valuable insights into the diversity of marine reptiles during the Triassic period and their adaptations to aquatic environments.