Thallatocheiridae

Thallatocheiridae is an extinct family of marine reptiles belonging to the order Choristodera. These animals lived during the Late Cretaceous period, with fossils discovered in what is now North America. Thallatocheirids are characterized by their unique skeletal features, particularly their elongated snouts and specialized teeth. Their exact phylogenetic placement within Choristodera has been a subject of ongoing research and debate among paleontologists.

The discovery of thallatocheirid fossils has provided valuable insights into the diversity and evolution of choristoderes, a group of semi-aquatic reptiles that persisted for a remarkably long time, surviving the end-Cretaceous extinction event. The anatomy of thallatocheirids suggests adaptations for a predatory lifestyle, likely preying on fish and other small aquatic organisms. Their elongated skulls may have aided in striking at prey with speed and precision.

While only a few species have been formally described, the existence of Thallatocheiridae highlights the complexity of ecosystems during the Cretaceous. The study of these fossils contributes to our understanding of the broader evolutionary history of reptiles and the ecological roles they occupied in ancient marine environments. Further discoveries and analyses are expected to refine our knowledge of this intriguing family and its place within the reptilian tree of life.