Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Evolution of prehistoric crocodiles mirrored in modern species
crocodile
The development of the prehistoric crocodile mirrors those of today's crocodiles
Researchers discover interesting parallels between groups of ancient crocodiles and those living today

New research by the University of Edinburgh has revealed that prehistoric crocodiles developed in a similar way to their modern day relatives.

The study looked into a group of prehistoric marine crocodiles known as Machimosaurus and reveals key details of where and how they lived.

Just like modern-day crocodiles, each species of Machimosaurus adapted features that enabled them to live and hunt in a range of habitats. They varied in body length, body skeleton, lower jaw and skull shape, and in their teeth.

The group included a nine-metre long saltwater species, which was adapted for living in open seas and fed on marine turtles. In contrast, its closest relative lived in choppy, coastal environments.

The development of the prehistoric crocodile mirrors those of today's crocodiles, whose saltwater varieties are much bigger and suited to large territories, whilst their smaller cousins live closer to shore or in freshwater.

From detailed analysis of fossil specimens, the research team were able to determine key elements of the animals' anatomy and lifestyle, and concluded that not all were of the same species.

Scientists were unsure whether more than one species of Machimosaurus existed until now. However, their findings reveal that there were at least three distinct species - one of which has been fully identified for the first time.

Dr. Mark Young, who led the study, said: "Interesting parallels can be seen between groups of ancient crocodiles and those living today, with some able to swim out in the open sea, with others restricted to the coast. With more fossils being discovered, we look forward to learning more about this giant group of Jurassic predators.”

The study is published in the journal
Royal Society Open Science

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

RUMA CA&E extends survey deadline

News Story 1
 RUMA CA&E has extended the deadline for its online survey into vaccine availability.

Vets, SQPs, retailers and wholesalers will now have until Friday, 26 September at 5pm to submit their response.

The survey aims to further understanding into the vaccine supply challenges faced by the sector. It will also consider the short and long term impacts of disruption issues.

Insights are anonymous, and will be shared with industry stakeholders and government bodies.

The survey can be accessed here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BSAVA publishes Guide to Nutrition in Small Animal Practice

The BSAVA has added a small animal nutrition advice booklet to its series of BSAVA guides.

The BSAVA Guide to Nutrition in Small Animal Practice offers a resource for veterinary professionals to provide appropriate nutrition for animals. As well as maintaining the wellbeing of healthy pets, the guide explores how nutritional requirements change in times of illness and disease.

The guide is divided into five sections, which explore the importance of nutritional assessment; diet types; feeding at different life stages; feeding for specific situations; and feeding for specific diseases. Online resources are also in the BSAVA Library including client handouts and videos.

It is designed to be suitable for referencing, in-depth case planning and team training sessions.

The BSAVA Guide to Nutrition in Small Animal Practice can be purchased online from the BSAVA store.