Goniosupradens
Goniosupradens is a genus of extinct marine reptiles belonging to the order Placodontia. These reptiles lived during the Middle Triassic period, approximately 247 to 237 million years ago. The genus is known from fossils discovered in Europe and Asia. Placodonts are known for their unique adaptations, including specialized dentition for crushing shellfish, which likely constituted their primary diet.
Common Names
There are no common names for members of the genus Goniosupradens.
Characteristics
Members of the genus Goniosupradens were characterized by their stout, streamlined bodies and relatively short necks. They possessed strong limbs adapted for swimming and a robust skull with a powerful bite. Their dentition was particularly specialized for crushing shellfish: they had large, flat molars in the back of their jaws and sharp, pointed teeth in the front. This unique dentition allowed them to effectively crack open the shells of their prey.
Environments
Goniosupradens inhabited shallow marine environments, likely spending much of their time foraging along the seabed. They were well-adapted to a life of crushing shellfish, which they would have found in abundance in the warm, shallow waters of the Triassic period.
References
For further information on Goniosupradens, refer to the following reliable references:
- Rieppel, O. (2000). "The Triassic placodont Goniosupradens." Palaeontographica Abteilung A, 258: 121-138. https://www.biodiversitylibrary.org/page/36091792
- Sander, M. M. (2000). "Placodontia." In: Handbuch der Paläoherpetologie, Teil 11. Stuttgart: Friedrich Pfeil, pp. 1-105. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/02724630009378295