A RARE DIPLOCYNODON FOSSIL

The Dyplocynodon, which was similar in size to the modern day Caiman, is one of the best-preserved Crocodile genera, and its name, meaning "Double Dog Tooth" references its two large fang-like teeth, a distinguishing feature of the genus. Just as they did millions of years ago, all species of Crocodiles (Crocodylinae) inhabit fresh water, and live most of their lives submerged in stagnant waters, where they can stay submurged for up to 50 minutes at a time as they prepare to ambush their prey. Their movements in the water are incredibly agile, though this agility is almost completely lost when on land. This fossil is a testament to the tropical environment of Eastern Europe during the Miocene, and is reminiscent of the highly coveted crocodile fossils from the Green River Formation.