The unusual dentition and feeding habits of the prolacertiform reptileLangobardisaurus(Late Triassic, northern Italy)

摘要: Previous known specimens of the prolacertiform reptile Langobardisaurus did not allow a detailed description skull (Renesto, 1994a). The discovery new specimen from Norian (Late Triassic) Friuli (Northeastern Italy) allows to be described for first time, revealing peculiar pattern dentition this genus, unknown in any other prolacertiform. presence weak, pointed anterior teeth, and bulky three-cusped cheek teeth followed posteriorly by single, very large, grinding tooth with small cusps, is interpreted as an adaptation feeding on wide variety preys hard exoskeletons, scaly covering or tough flesh. It suggested that fed both invertebrates fishes along tidal flats which surrounded anoxic basins where it was buried after death.