Miocene Monster Croc Dominated South American Prey, Study Finds

A new study in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology identifies Purussaurus neivensis as a Miocene South American apex predator, a giant crocodyliform about 7 meters long and ~1,800 kg that likely preyed on rhino-sized mammals such as Granastrapotherium snorki. Fossil remains from Colombia’s La Tatacoa Desert show bite marks and injuries consistent with large-head predation, suggesting crocodylians dominated big prey before the Great American Biotic Interchange, much like today’s crocodilians show bite power and reliance on large prey. The researchers also note these predators helped recycle nutrients through their feces, illustrating their ecological impact alongside other giant hunters of the era.