Eusuchia ("true crocodiles") is a clade of crocodilians that evolved in the Late Cretaceous period.^[1] All living crocodilian species are eusuchians, as are many extinct forms.

Description

Unlike primitive crocodylomorphs, eusuchians possess a secondary bony palate.^[1] This feature enables crocodiles and alligators to safely breathe in through their nostrils while the rest of the head (including the mouth) remains submerged.^[2]

References