Schafisaurus

Schafisaurus is a genus of extinct reptile that lived during the Triassic period. It is known from fossil remains discovered in Germany. The exact taxonomic placement of Schafisaurus has been debated, but it is generally considered to be a member of the Archosauriformes, a group that includes crocodilians, birds, and their extinct relatives.

The fossils of Schafisaurus are fragmentary, primarily consisting of skull material and some postcranial elements. These remains suggest that Schafisaurus was a relatively small, terrestrial animal, likely measuring around one meter in length. Its skull possessed some features that are characteristic of early archosauriforms, such as a kinetic skull and certain dental arrangements. The precise diet and lifestyle of Schafisaurus are not well understood due to the limited fossil evidence.

The discovery of Schafisaurus contributes to our understanding of the early evolution and diversification of archosauriforms during the Triassic. This period was a crucial time for the emergence of many major reptile lineages that would go on to dominate ecosystems in the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. Further discoveries of more complete specimens would be beneficial for a more definitive understanding of Schafisaurus's anatomy, evolutionary relationships, and ecological role within its ancient environment.