Discover 5 massive giant crocodiles that are now extinct
Crocodiles are some of the oldest reptiles on Earth with a history stretching back millions of years. While today's crocodiles are already impressive predators, their ancient ancestors were often on a whole different level from growing to enormous sizes that dwarf the crocodiles we know now.
In this journey back in time, we'll explore five of the most massive giant crocodiles that once ruled the rivers and swamps of prehistoric Earth but have since gone extinct. Prepare to meet some truly colossal creatures that showcase the incredible diversity and power of prehistoric crocodiles.
Five giant crocodiles that no longer exists
Sarcosuchus
Sarcosuchus which is often called 'SuperCroc' was an enormous prehistoric crocodile that lived around 112 million years ago during the Early Cretaceous period.
It measured up to 12 meters (39 feet) long, which makes it about twice the size of modern crocodiles. This giant reptile had a broad snout filled with sharp teeth which was ideal for catching and crushing large prey, possibly including dinosaurs. Sarcosuchus inhabited rivers and lakes in what is now Africa and South America.
Its body was covered in thick and bony armor for protection. As one of the largest crocodilians ever discovered, Sarcosuchus was a dominant apex predator in its ecosystem.
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Source: Wikipedia
Purussaurus
Purussaurus was a colossal prehistoric caiman that lived around 5 to 10 million years ago during the Miocene epoch in South America. Growing up to 10–12 meters (33–39 feet) long, it was one of the largest crocodilian species ever. Purussaurus had an enormous and powerful jaw filled with sharp teeth that were capable of crushing large prey including turtles, fish and possibly other large animals. It dominated the rivers and wetlands of its time, using its size and strength to stay at the top of the food chain.
Its heavily armored body provided excellent protection against rivals and predators.
Source: Dinosaur wiki
Dakosaurus
Dakosaurus was a fierce marine crocodile that lived around 150 million years ago during the Late Jurassic period. Unlike modern crocodiles, it was adapted to life in the ocean with a streamlined body and powerful jaws filled with sharp and serrated teeth ideal for hunting large fish and marine reptiles. Measuring up to 4 to 5 meters (13 to 16 feet) long, Dakosaurus was an apex predator of its time.
It had a strong, agile build that made it a fast swimmer, dominating the coastal waters of prehistoric seas with its deadly bite and speed.
Source: Fossil wiki
Desmatosuchus
Desmatosuchus was a large armored reptile that lived about 230 million years ago during the Late Triassic period. Though not a true crocodile, it belonged to a related group called aetosaurs which were distant relatives of modern crocodilians. Measuring around 4 to 5 meters (13 to 16 feet) long, Desmatosuchus was covered in heavy bony armor and spikes along its back and sides, providing strong protection against predators.
It was primarily a plant-eater, using its beak-like mouth to feed on tough vegetation. Desmatosuchus lived in what is now North America, roaming riverbanks and floodplains.
Source: Wikipedia
Aegisuchus
Aegisuchus was a gigantic prehistoric crocodile that lived around 95 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous period in what is now North Africa. It was nicknamed as the 'Shield Crocodile' because of the distinctive bony crest on its head, Aegisuchus could grow up to 9 meters (30 feet) long. Its unique skull shape suggests it may have had powerful jaw muscles and a strong bite that helped in ambushing large prey. Although less is known about its exact lifestyle, Aegisuchus likely lived in freshwater environments like rivers and lakes, making it one of the most fascinating extinct crocodilian species.
Source: Wikipedia
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