Palaeontologists working in Tanzania have unearthed fossils of a tiny crocodile-like creature with teeth resembling those of mammals.
The animal, Pakasuchus kapilimai, lived between 144 and 65 million years ago - during the Cretaceous - in what is now sub-Saharan Africa.
Scientists say the find shows that crocs were once more diverse than they are today.
The team reports its discovery in the journal Nature.
Paka means "cat" in Kiswahili, Tanzania's official language, and refers to the reptile's short, low skull with slicing, molar-like teeth.
Patrick O'Connor, associate professor of anatomy at the Ohio University College of osteopathic medicine, led an international team of researchers.
via BBC News - Ancient 'cat-like' crocodile had bite like a mammal.
Monday, August 9, 2010
Ancient 'cat-like' crocodile had bite like a mammal
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1 comment:
That's amazing. I wonder if that creature lives today - there would be crazy looking cat like pets on our street. At least, they are not as big as the T-rex.
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