A new large hypercarnivorous crocodyliform from the Maastrichtian of Southern Patagonia, Argentina

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Paper Summary

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Meet Kostensuchus, the Cretaceous Crocodile King of Patagonia!

A new genus and species of peirosaurid crocodyliform, Kostensuchus atrox, was discovered in the Maastrichtian Chorrillo Formation of Southern Patagonia. This large predator, estimated to be 3.5 meters long, adds to our understanding of broad-snouted peirosaurids and their role as apex predators in Late Cretaceous Gondwanan ecosystems. Phylogenetic analysis places Kostensuchus within a clade of robust, broad-snouted peirosaurids.

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None identified

Identified Weaknesses

Inherent limitations of fossil data

While the authors address potential biases and limitations related to fossil preservation and phylogenetic analysis, the inherent limitations of working with fossil data should be acknowledged.

Potential for future revisions based on new data

Further research and discoveries could potentially refine or alter the proposed phylogenetic placement and interpretations of evolutionary history.

Rating Explanation

This paper describes a significant new fossil discovery, Kostensuchus, a large peirosaurid crocodyliform from the Late Cretaceous of Patagonia. The specimen is exceptionally well-preserved, offering valuable insights into the anatomy, phylogeny, and paleoecology of broad-snouted peirosaurids. The study employs robust phylogenetic methods and provides a detailed description, enhancing our understanding of this group and its role in Cretaceous ecosystems. While working with fossil data has inherent limitations, the study's strengths outweigh these constraints, justifying a rating of 4.

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