12 million year-old fossil discovery reveals rare species of prehistoric crocodile in Peru

Paleontologists have discovered the fossil of a rare prehistoric crocodile believed to be over 10 million years old. This breakthrough gives scientists a unique glimpse into the existence, characteristics and environment of ancient aquatic reptiles in the region.

Paleontologists in Lima have unveiled a fossil they believe is 12 million years old. The fossil belongs to an ancient species of crocodilian, discovered in southern Peru.

The fossil was discovered in the Ica region of southern Peru, an area known for its rich fossil deposits on Wednesday. According to scientists from the Geological Institute, it belongs to a crocodilian specie and measures between 3 and 4 meters long.

"We are presenting the "Piscogavialis”, which is a crocodile we found in the Ica region, south of Lima, in the Pisco Formation. We believe it is approximately 10 to 12 million years old. Based on the size we measured, we believe it may have been between 3 to 4 meters long (9.8 to 13 feet). However, it is important to highlight that it is possibly a young individual, while adults reach between 8 to 9 meters (26.2 to 29.5 feet), this one has only reached up to 3 or 4 meters (9.8 to 13 feet),” Mario Gamarra, a scientist at the Geological Institute, said.

Officials carrying out the reconstruction say it was found in near-perfect condition and represents the first juvenile specimen of this species to be uncovered. They added that discoveries show the species also resided in South America in ancient times.

The skull and jaws of these specimens differed from that of today's crocodiles and alligators, according to officials. The well-preserved fossil offers valuable insights into ancient marine life in the region.