neosuchian

Neosuchian is a clade of crocodylomorphs that lived from the Late Jurassic to the present day. They are characterized by a combination of skeletal features, including a well-developed antorbital fenestra and a specific arrangement of the bones in their skull. This group encompasses all living crocodiles and their extinct relatives. The name "neosuchian" itself is derived from Greek words meaning "new crocodile."

This diverse group includes a wide range of extinct forms that varied significantly in size and habitat. Some neosuchians were large, terrestrial predators, while others were smaller and more aquatic. Their evolutionary success is evident in their long geological history and their ability to adapt to various environments. Fossil evidence has revealed a rich tapestry of neosuchian diversity, with numerous genera and species described from different continents.

The modern crocodylians, such as crocodiles, alligators, caimans, and gharials, are the direct descendants of neosuchian ancestors. These extant species represent the surviving lineage of a once much broader group. The study of neosuchians provides crucial insights into the evolution of Archosauria, the larger group that also includes dinosaurs and birds. Understanding neosuchian anatomy and phylogeny helps to reconstruct the evolutionary relationships within the broader reptile family tree.