Paleontologists discover dinosaur-era crocodile in Patagonia

Published: Friday, August 29, 2025 at 7:12 pm

Dinosaur-Era Crocodile Unearthed in Argentina

Buenos Aires, Argentina – An international team of paleontologists has announced the discovery of a new species of ancient crocodile in Patagonia, Argentina. The fossilized remains, including a well-preserved skull and jaws, belong to a hypercarnivorous crocodile that roamed the region approximately 70 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous period.

The newly identified species, named *Kostensuchus atrox*, is characterized by its robust jaw, large teeth, and powerful bite. Researchers believe these features indicate the crocodile was a top predator within its ecosystem. The animal was not a dinosaur, but rather a member of the extinct peirosaur family, which originated in South America and Africa during the Cretaceous period.

*Kostensuchus atrox* is believed to have inhabited a humid, lush environment. Its physical characteristics, including a relatively large head and short, vertically positioned legs, suggest it was more agile than modern crocodiles. The crocodile's head measured around 20 inches, and its snout contained over 50 teeth, some exceeding two inches in length with serrated edges.

The discovery site, located near El Calafate, also yielded evidence of other predators, including the dinosaur *Maip macrothorax*. Scientists suggest that *Kostensuchus atrox* and *Maip macrothorax* may have competed for food, similar to the interactions between modern-day predators like lions and hyenas.

The research team, comprised of scientists from Argentina, Brazil, and Japan, received support from National Geographic and Brazilian science agencies. The find is considered a significant contribution to understanding the biodiversity of the Patagonian ecosystem before the end of the dinosaur era. It also provides further evidence of the presence of large, robust animals in both South America and Madagascar towards the end of the Cretaceous period.

BNN's Perspective: This discovery is a fascinating glimpse into the prehistoric world. While the scientific community continues to uncover new species and expand our understanding of the past, it's important to remember the significance of international collaboration and the role of organizations like National Geographic in supporting these crucial research endeavors.

Keywords: dinosaur, crocodile, Patagonia, Argentina, fossil, paleontologist, Cretaceous period, Kostensuchus atrox, hypercarnivorous, predator, ecosystem, Maip macrothorax, peirosaur, El Calafate, CONICET, National Geographic, Late Cretaceous, South America, Madagascar, biodiversity

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