embolomeres

Embolomeres, or embolomorphs, are an extinct order of reptiliomorph tetrapods that lived during the late Carboniferous to early Permian periods. They are among the earlier large predatory, crocodile-like amphibian relatives that illuminate the transition from primitive amphibians toward amniote lineages.

Morphology and lifestyle of embolomorphs varied, but they typically had elongated bodies, relatively robust limbs, and large skulls with sharp tooth rows. Their dentition indicates a carnivorous diet, likely capturing small vertebrates and possibly fish. The overall build suggests a semi-aquatic to terrestrial lifestyle, with adaptations suitable for ambush predation in aquatic or floodplain environments.

In anatomy, embolomorphs are distinguished by a distinctive vertebral structure that sets them apart from many other Paleozoic tetrapods. This feature, reflected in their name, relates to the way their centra and articulations were arranged, contributing to a spine capable of supporting both mobility and stability in dynamic habitats.

Fossil evidence for embolomorphs has been found in North America and Europe, with records indicating regional or temporal diversity across the late Carboniferous and early Permian. Their distribution and morphology help palaeontologists understand the range of ecological strategies employed by early reptiliomorphs.

Systematically, embolomorphs are placed within Reptiliomorpha, a clade of early, amniote-related tetrapods that represents key steps in the evolution toward land-dwelling reptiles. Their study contributes to broader discussions of Paleozoic tetrapod radiation and the origins of amniote lineages. See also Reptiliomorpha, Amniota, Tetrapoda.