A fossil of a 12-million-year-old Crocodile has been discovered in Peru.
A well-preserved fossil of a young marine crocodile that lived between 10 and 12 million years ago has been discovered in Peru’s Ocucaje desert, offering new insights into life during the Miocene period.
This fossil, measuring about three meters in length, was uncovered in late 2023. It is the first time a juvenile of this gharial-like species has been found, providing researchers with a unique opportunity to study the growth and development of these ancient animals.
“This is the first time we found a juvenile of this species, meaning it had not reached its maximum size yet. It died before that,” explained vertebrate paleontologist Mario Gamarra, who led the reconstruction of the fossil. The crocodile’s elongated snout and fish-based diet distinguish it from modern crocodiles and alligators, making it a fascinating link to its closest living relative, the Indian gharial.
The Ocucaje Desert
The Ocucaje desert, located about 350 kilometers south of Lima, is known for its rich fossil record. Previous finds include ancient whales, dolphins, sharks, and other marine species from the Miocene epoch, a time when the region was covered by ocean.
The discovery was made by a team from Peru’s Geological, Mining, and Metallurgical Institute in collaboration with the La Union school. Its excellent preservation offers valuable insights into the marine ecosystems of millions of years ago, adding another piece to the puzzle of Earth’s history.
