Kotlassia prima (Amalitzky 1898) Late Permian ~260 mya, 1 m in length, was more salamander-like than its sister, Seymouria with a smaller skull, shorter legs and longer torso. Both were derived from a sister to Eldeceeon.
Distinct from Seymouria, the skull of Kotlassia was relatively smaller and flatter. The stapes was slender, presumeably for improved hearing. The rostrum was shorter and the orbits were more dorsally directed.
24-28 presacral vertebrae were present. Two sacral vertebrae were present, as in reptiles. The pectoral ribs were expanded at their tips.
The limbs were all relatively smaller, suggesting a more aquatic lifestyle. Only four digits are known for the foot.
Tadpoles are known for closely related taxa. Dorsal scutes were bony, not keratinous.
A more complete family tree of the Reptilia and their ancestors is here. |
