This Crocodile Relative Was One of Dinosaurs’ Most Fearsome Predators

The discovery of a fossil in Argentina has revealed that crocodile-like reptiles, known as crocodylomorphs, were formidable predators during the age of dinosaurs. The fossil, dating back to the late Cretaceous period, approximately 80 million years ago, showcases a species that was a close relative of modern crocodiles. This crocodylomorph, dubbed Gwawinapterus beardi, was a sizable predator, measuring up to 3 meters in length. It had a powerful, elongated snout and numerous sharp teeth, indicating its ability to hunt and consume a wide range of prey, including dinosaurs. The presence of this formidable predator suggests that dinosaurs faced significant competition from other reptilian species, even in the later stages of their reign on Earth. The discovery provides valuable insights into the complex ecosystem and predator-prey dynamics that existed during the final chapter of the dinosaur era, highlighting the diversity and adaptability of reptilian life at the time.