Kaprosuchus (Schleich)

Schleich - Kaprosuchus

Part of the Dinosaur Series by Schleich.

Measures approximately in inches: 8.5 x 2.5 x 3 (L x W x H)

Kaprosuchus is an extinct genus of mahajangasuchid crocodyliform. It is known from a single nearly complete skull collected from the Upper Cretaceous Echkar Formation of Niger. The name means "boar crocodile" from the Greek, kapros ("boar") and, soukhos ("crocodile") in reference to its unusually large caniniform teeth which resemble those of a boar. It has been nicknamed "BoarCroc" by Paul Sereno and Hans Larsson. The original description estimated the entire animal to be 6 metres (19.7 ft) in length. It possesses three sets of tusk-like canine teeth that project above and below the skull, one of which in the lower jaw fits into notches in upper jaw. This type of dentition is not seen in any other known crocodyliform. Kaprosuchus is thought to have been a primarily if not exclusively terrestrial predator. Evidence for this behavior includes the positioning of the eyes, which suggests an overlap in vision. Additional support for terrestrial predation can be found in the teeth and jaws. The enlarged canines are sharp-edged and relatively straight, unlike the fluted, subconical, recurved teeth of aquatic crocodyliforms. It is likely that the jaws were able to open relatively quickly with a large gape to allow for the opposing canines to clear one another. The fused nasal bones are thought to have provided reinforcement for the jaws against compression associated with a powerful bite. The telescoped, dorsally positioned external nares are seen as protection against impact if the animal rammed prey with its robust snout. The keratinous shield thought to have covered the tip of the snout would have provided further protection.

The art work and detail are beautiful on this hand painted figure.

Made of durable synthetic material. Hand Painted.

Schleich 15025