súlyodon

Súlyodon is a genus of extinct thalattosaur, a group of marine reptiles that lived during the Triassic period. The name "Súlyodon" is derived from the Greek words "sylos" meaning "barge" or "ship" and "odōn" meaning "tooth," referring to the distinctive shape of its teeth. Only one species, Súlyodon zitteli, has been described.

Fossils of Súlyodon have been found in Europe, specifically in Austria and Hungary. These discoveries provide insights into the diversity of marine reptile life during the Triassic. Súlyodon is characterized by its relatively small size, with estimated lengths of around 1 to 2 meters. Its skeletal structure suggests an adaptation for a semi-aquatic lifestyle, likely spending a significant amount of time in marine environments.

The dentition of Súlyodon is a key feature. Its teeth were peg-like and somewhat spatulate, arranged in rows. This type of dentition is interpreted as being suitable for grasping and crushing small prey, such as invertebrates or small fish. Unlike some other thalattosaurs, Súlyodon appears to have had a more generalized diet.

Súlyodon's evolutionary relationships place it within the order Thalattosauria. Thalattosaurs were a diverse group of marine reptiles that inhabited the oceans of the Late Triassic. They exhibited a range of adaptations to marine life, from paddle-like limbs to specialized skull structures. The discovery of Súlyodon contributes to our understanding of the paleoecology and evolutionary history of this extinct marine reptile clade.