Feeding adaptations in Triassic Dicynodonts

Abstract

The Dicynodontia declined markedly at the close of the Permian, entered the Triassic with very few species and had a final burst of evolutionary success in the Middle Triassic, before being overcome by archosaurian competitors in the Upper Triassic. The structure of their skull is analysed in terms of life habit and it is concluded that in all probability the most likely close analogues to the Triassic Dicynodontia were the ground sloths of the American Neogene. Browsing and grazing modes of life are recognised. It is also postulated that tusks in the Triassic Dicynodontia were used for display purposes, and that tuskless forms were either nocturnal, or lived in thick undergrowth.