Crocodiles: The Surprisingly Gentle Old Guys of Earth
Think you know all about croc‑s? Think again! New research reveals that many ancient cousins of today’s crocodiles were anything but the ferocious predators we’re used to picturing them as.
What the Study Did
- Researchers scanned 146 teeth from 16 long‑gone species of crocodyliforms.
- Using a computer model, they decoded what each tooth told us about its jaw‑action.
- Results show a menu: carnivores, omnivores, and even plant‑eaters.
From Scales to Tasty Treats
While modern crocs are known for their raw power, the ancient ones were more varied. Some resembled today’s alligators, but others were tiny, land‑dwelling critters with sturdy legs—think of a “hairless, armored dog or cat” with a scaly hide.
Eating Habits That Sparked Curiosity
The big question: why did some of these big reptiles switch to a plant‑based diet?
- One theory: emptier habitats meant less competition from mammals.
- However, the plant‑eaters weren’t always living alone—they sometimes shared the stage with mammals and even proto‑mammals.
What’s Next for Researchers
The team aims to reconstruct the entire ecosystems from 250 million years ago right up to 55 million years ago—the span of their data set. That means piecing together climate shifts, plant life, and other creatures that lived alongside these ancient crocs.
“Paleontology is all about doing our best to weave together all those bits of evidence,” Keegan Melstrom, the lead researcher, says with enthusiasm.
Say Goodbye to the “Living Fossil” Label
Keegan is calling on readers to ditch the “living fossil” title. “It masks the dynamic evolutionary story—so many body shapes, habitats, and diets,” he urges.
Bottom line: Crocodiles weren’t always the terrifying hunters we imagine. They were a colorful tribe, swapping between grim predators and gentle grazers, all while adapting to changing worlds. The ancient world was a little more foodie than you’d guess!
