A new small Stereospondylous labyrinthodont from the Triassic beds of South Africa

Abstract

This paper describes an interesting new Amphibian, Laidleria gracilis gen. et sp. nov., from the Lower Triassic of South Africa (Cynognathus-zone). It is a Stereospondylid Labyrinthodont, belonging to the family Trematosauridae, but it differs in being exceptionally small. Most of the skeleton is preserved and with it are associated masses of small dermal scutes reflecting the nature of the skin. A combination of some peculiar characteristics encourages the recognition of this specimen as representing a new family.