Eryopid

/ɛˈraɪəpɪd/ noun

Definition

Any member of Eryopidae, an extinct family of large amphibians from the Carboniferous and Permian periods.

Etymology

From the genus Eryops plus the suffix -id, indicating a member of a family or group. The genus name comes from Greek eryon (shrimp-like) and ops (face), describing these creatures' appearance.

Kelly Says

Eryopids were among Earth's first large predators, living before dinosaurs ruled—imagine a 6-foot alligator-headed salamander that could walk on land: these creatures dominated swamps 300 million years ago and show how alien ancient life really was.

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