Crocodile Species Comparative Study

The research team discovered a new type of small-bodied crocodile in southern Tanzania, dating back 105 million years to the Cretaceous Period. This crocodile is unique due to its forward-facing nose and distinct teeth, suggesting it was a land-dwelling animal. Its anatomy is compared to modern animals like house cats, and its teeth resemble those of mammals, indicating a possible niche overlap. The study includes comparisons with other East African crocodiles, highlighting their diversification and niche exploitation similar to mammals in the northern hemisphere.

What is notable about the size of the newly discovered crocodile in Tanzania?

• It is the size of a dinosaur.

• It is the same size as modern crocodiles.

• It is small enough to fit in the palm of a hand.

• It is larger than most known crocodiles.

During which geological period did this crocodile exist?

• Permian Period

• Jurassic Period

• Cretaceous Period

• Triassic Period

What is unusual about the nose of this new crocodile species?

• It has a nose similar to a bird.

• The nose holes are directed forward.

• The nose holes are directed upwards.

• It has no nose.

How does the limb structure of this crocodile compare to modern animals?

• It has wings instead of limbs.

• It has no limbs.

• It has long and slender limbs.

• It has short and thick limbs.

Which modern animals are comparable in size to this crocodile?

• Lions

• Elephants

• Giraffes

• House cats and possums

What is distinctive about the teeth of this crocodile?

• They include canine-like and molar-like teeth.

• They are similar to bird beaks.

• They are made of metal.

• They are all the same size.

What function do the large canine-like teeth serve?

• For decoration

• For acquiring food

• For flying

• For swimming

Where has the researcher conducted comparative studies of crocodiles?

• In the Kenyon national museum in Nairobi, Kenya

• In the Amazon rainforest

• In the Arctic

• In the Sahara desert

What niche might these small-bodied terrestrial crocodiles have been exploiting?

• A niche for large predators

• A niche typically occupied by mammals

• A niche for flying animals

• A niche for aquatic animals

In which hemisphere did mammals occupy the niche that these crocodiles might have exploited?

• Eastern Hemisphere

• Western Hemisphere

• Southern Hemisphere

• Northern Hemisphere