Primitive crocodiles used to run on land like horses

Primitive crocodiles existed 100 million years ago, they are not only good swimmers but also run on land as fast as horses.

Ancient crocodiles used to be like horses

Fossils of this ancient crocodile have been unearthed by archaeologists in a remote area of ​​the Sahara. They are located in the contiguous territory between Morocco and Niger. A total of 5 species have been identified from the remaining traces. They were identified as animals that had 'galloped' and dominated rivers in North Africa 100 million years ago.

Crocodiles used to run on land like horses.

Among the skeletons discovered, archaeologists found three new species first discovered. And one of them is our protagonist, Kaprosuchus , the animal is 6.5 meters long with a snout just like today's crocodile, even more sturdy and healthy. It is capable of penetrating prey like a steel jaw.

The second species, Laganosuchus thaumastos , they are similar in length to Kaprosuchus. Possessing a flat head like a crocodile, Laganosuchus children often lurk under the water with their mouths wide open. Just a fish that accidentally gets through will be caught.

These species are all included in the ancestral lineage of crocodiles living in the water. However, one thing in particular, their bone structure revealed that not only good swimmers, these crocodiles can also 'gallop' on land like horses. Compared to the current, slow crocodiles with extended legs, the belly touching the ground, the primitive crocodiles once possessed a great ability.

' The African crocodile seems to have two hind legs that can stand upright . They own quick legs on the road and a flexible tail on the waterway , 'Paul Sereno, a paleontologist at the University of Chicago wrote in National Geographic magazine. 'These findings opened up the answer to the question of which crocodile species dominated the African continent 100 million years ago.'

Besides, the third new species discovered does not leave scientists with a clear impression. They are just Araripesuchus rattoides , only 1 meter long and have a teeth suitable for excavation.

Paleontologist Paul Sereno next to the regenerated crocodile teeth.

Back in 2001, Sereno also discovered the fossil of a 12m-long crocodile, living 110 million years ago. It was named SuperCroc and was estimated to weigh 8 tons.

Some ancient crocodiles have snails similar to crocodiles today. However, some species are found to have soft muzzle like a muzzle. This is strange . 'We were surprised to find many crocodiles in the same place. They seem to have a different diet. And since each species has its own characteristics, they have shared ecosystems together , 'said Hans Larsson, another Paleontologist from the University of Montreal.

These findings by scientists are in a program sponsored by National Geographic. Their work partly helps us to better visualize a crowded and colorful ancient world in Africa 100 million years ago. And today, we have to thank creation, because it's lucky that alligators no longer run on land like horses.