metoposaurids

Metoposaurids are a group of extinct reptiles that lived during the Late Triassic period, approximately 230 to 200 million years ago. They are known for their distinctive skull structure, which features a large, flat surface on the top of the skull, known as the metoposaurian table. This structure is believed to have been used for display or communication purposes, as it is not found in any other reptile group.

Metoposaurids are characterized by their long, slender bodies and relatively small heads. They had a variety of adaptations for their aquatic or semi-aquatic lifestyles, including webbed feet and a streamlined body shape. Some species, such as Metoposaurus, had a long, whip-like tail that may have been used for balance or defense.

The fossil record of metoposaurids is well-preserved, with numerous specimens found in Europe, North America, and South America. They are believed to have been one of the dominant groups of reptiles during the Late Triassic, and their extinction is thought to have been caused by a combination of factors, including climate change and competition from other reptile groups.

Metoposaurids are an important group of reptiles for understanding the evolution of early amniotes, as they represent an early example of a group that evolved a unique skull structure for display or communication. Their extinction marked the end of an era for these reptiles, and their fossils continue to provide valuable insights into the diversity and evolution of early amniotes.