ocellisuch

Ocellisuch is a genus of extinct crocodylomorph that lived during the Paleocene epoch. Fossils of Ocellisuch have been found in Egypt, specifically within the Qasr el-Sagha Formation. This formation dates to the late Paleocene, approximately 59 to 56 million years ago. Ocellisuch is classified within the family Notosuchidae, a group of terrestrial or semi-aquatic crocodylomorphs known for their relatively robust build and specialized dentition.

The remains of Ocellisuch suggest it was a medium-sized crocodylomorph, likely adapted to terrestrial life, though it may have had some aquatic capabilities. Its skull possessed features characteristic of notosuchids, including a relatively short snout and distinct cranial ornamentation. The exact phylogenetic relationships of Ocellisuch within Notosuchidae are still a subject of research, with some studies suggesting it is a basal member of the group. The discovery of Ocellisuch provides valuable insight into the diversity and evolution of crocodylomorphs in Africa during the early Cenozoic, a period following the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event. Its presence indicates that crocodylomorphs continued to diversify and occupy various ecological niches in the post-extinction world.