Protosuchus

Protosuchus is an extinct genus of early crocodyliforms from the Late Triassic period. Fossils have been found in North America, with other reports in Africa. It is one of the earliest crocodyliforms, representing an early stage in the evolution of the lineage that would lead to crocodiles.

Anatomy: Protosuchus individuals were small to moderate in size and had a broad, boxy skull, strong jaws with pointed teeth, and relatively stout limbs. The back carried rows of osteoderms (bony armor). The limbs suggest a mainly terrestrial, possibly semi-erect gait rather than the fully sprawling modern crocodilian posture.

Ecology: Protosuchus was likely a terrestrial carnivore, feeding on small vertebrates and invertebrates. Its build would have aided quick bursts of movement and prey capture in floodplain or river valley environments typical of Triassic ecosystems.

Significance: As an early crocodyliform, Protosuchus helps illustrate the early diversification of Crocodylomorpha and the gradual shift toward the more specialized crocodilian body plan seen in later Triassic and Jurassic forms.