Crocodiles

Crocodiles are one of the most ancient groups of reptiles, with a lineage stretching back over 230 million years. Their evolutionary journey has been marked by remarkable resilience and adaptation. While they may appear unchanged since prehistoric times, their evolutionary history is rich and complex.

Crocodiles are the last surviving members of a diverse group of reptiles known as crocodylomorphs. These ancient reptiles thrived during the Mesozoic Era, diversifying into a wide range of forms, including large terrestrial predators and marine giants. However, the end-Cretaceous mass extinction event wiped out many of these diverse forms, leaving only a few lineages to survive.

Modern crocodiles have managed to persist through various environmental changes and challenges. Their unique combination of aquatic and terrestrial adaptations, including specialized respiratory systems, powerful jaws, and efficient thermoregulation, has allowed them to thrive in diverse habitats. By studying the fossil record and the genetic makeup of modern crocodiles, scientists continue to unravel the fascinating story of their evolution and their remarkable ability to endure.