Scientists Discovers New Species of Ancient Crocodile

The new species nicknamed “Shieldcroc” is the earliest ancestor of modern crocodiles to be found in Africa.

Researcher have identified a new species of prehistoric crocodile. The extinct creature, nicknamed “Shieldcroc” due to a thick-skinned shield on its head, is an ancestor of today’s crocodiles. It is the earliest ancestor of modern crocodiles to be found in Africa. 

Its discovery provides scientists with additional information about the evolution of crocodiles and how scientists can gain insight into ways to protect the species’ environment and help prevent extinction. The discovery was published this week in the journal PLoS-ONE (Public Library of Science).

Missouri University assistant professor Casey Holliday nicknamed Aegisuchus witmeri “Shieldcroc” because of its thick skinned shield. Credit: Henry Tsai

MU Researcher Discovers New Species of Ancient Crocodile from MU News Bureau.


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