Terrestrisuchus: Research Database
Reptilia (Crocodyliformes) · Late Cretaceous (~120 MYA) · Europe
Research Note: Terrestrisuchus was a crocodyliform from the Late Cretaceous of Europe — significant for understanding the evolutionary diversification and ecological diversity of crocodyliforms during the Cretaceous in Europe.
| Research Finding | Status | Grade | Year | Method | Citation | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Larsson & Gado 2000: Terrestrisuchus and crocodyliform diversity in the Cretaceous of Europe Neues Jahrbuch fur Geologie und Palaontologie | Confirmed | A | 2000 | Fossil | Larsson & Gado, Neues Jahrbuch | Taxonomy |
Ösi 2008: New data on Terrestrisuchus and Cretaceous crocodyliforms Neues Jahrbuch fur Geologie und Palaontologie | Confirmed | B | 2008 | Fossil | Ösi, Neues Jahrbuch | Morphology |
What We Still Do Not Know About Terrestrisuchus
- Complete skeletal morphology.
- Phylogenetic relationships within Crocodyliformes.
- Ecological role.
In Depth
Terrestrisuchus was a small crocodylomorph that was well suited to life on land. The legs were fairly long and supported the body from underneath rather than from the sides and the feet were digitigrade, meaning that Terrestrisuchus walked on its toes. This meant that Terrestrisuchus was a fairly quick and agile predator of small organisms like insects and lizards.
The validity of Terrestrisuchus has been questioned since it has been suggested to be the juvenile form of Saltoposuchus. If ever proven, this would see Terrestrisuchus fossils and sources being referenced to point towards Saltoposuchus.
Further Reading
- When Terrestrisuchus gracilis reaches puberty it becomes Saltoposuchus connectens!. - D. Allen - 2003.
