Smilosuchus gregorii

Phytosaurs resemble crocodiles, but they are not closely related. This is a case of convergent evolution: the two groups independently evolved similar features as adaptations to similar lifestyles. This Triassic land-dweller, Smilosuchus gregorii, will be on display in “The David H. Koch Hall of Fossils—Deep Time” opening June 8 at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History.

Credit: Smithsonian Institution