Are Crocodiles a Dinosaur?

KOMPAS.com – Crocodile and alligators are often referred to as “living fossils” because of their physical characteristics similar to those of dinosaurs.

Crocodiles and dinosaurs had scaly skin, sharp teeth, and long pointed tails.

Besides, some prehistoric animals are ancestors crocodile until it evolved into the modern crocodile known today.

If so, are crocodiles a dinosaur?

Crocodiles before dinosaurs

Crocodile relatives are believed to have existed either before dinosaurs existed or right when dinosaurs first appeared.

Read also: Crocodile Pounces on Teenager in Lake Tolire, How to Prevent Similar Incidents?

Reported from AZ Animals, Crocodile’s ancestors date back to 240 million years ago in the Triassic period, the same era when dinosaurs first evolved.

Paleontologist Bhart-Anjan Bhullar found two fossils in Utah that date back to the Triassic period.

The complete remains of the Poposaur provide clues to the crocodile’s earliest relatives. Apparently, the Poposaur walked on its hind legs and was upright, similar to a Tyrannosaurus.

Another feature of the Poposaur, which looked more like a modern crocodile, was that it had a long snout with sharp teeth.

These fossils date back to an era before dinosaurs became popular, such as when T-rex was still alive.

Read also: This Ancient Crocodile Was Able To Prey Human Ancestors

–
–