Does Inner and Middle Ear Morphology Link to an Aquatic Adaptation in Crocodylomorphs (Crocodylomorpha: Thalattosuchia)?

Abstract

Bony labyrinth morphology and tympanic air spaces provide powerful proxies for ecological adaptations in vertebrates. The labyrinth is responsible for the sense of hearing, and balance and equilibrium. Semicircular canal morphology is influenced by locomotion and behav- ior, the cochlear duct however, by hearing sensitivity. Here, we investi- gate ancient crocodylomorphs that underwent a major evolutionary transition from semi-aquatic to marine environments. Thalattosuchia thrived from the Early Jurassic to the Early Cretaceous...