Phratochronis qilianensis Li et Cheng, 1999

Chroniosuchidae

Diagnostic features same as genus. Diagnostic features Small chroniosuchid (maxillary tooth row approximately 115 mm, estimated skull length 170 mm). Distinguished from Russian chroniosuchids by more robust caniniform teeth; distinguished from Ingentidens by distinct pleurodont dentition, fewer caniniform teeth (three on dentary), and more consistent tooth morphology (maxillary teeth similar in shape and size). Diagnostic features same as genus.

Remark Species name from fossil locality 'Hexi Corridor.' This species currently has only one holotype mandible, preserved length approximately 310 mm, representing a relatively large chroniosuchid. Remark The genus name means 'brother of chroniosuchids.' This genus is clearly smaller than Ingentidens, and its caniniform teeth fewer, teeth pleurodont, size relatively uniform, distinguishing it from Ingentidens at the same locality. Remark Species name indicates fossil from 'northern slope of Qilian Mountains.' Although specimen preservation is poor, the dorsal margin structure of the maxilla indicates this animal's skull had two preorbital fenestrae. Specimen preserved length approximately 115 mm (including premaxilla and maxilla), Remark Golubev (1998a,b) provided detailed discussion and summary of the two families under Chroniosuchia: Chroniosuchidae and Bystrowianidae, listing family diagnostic features and genus-level diagnostic features for Chroniosuchidae.

Holotype of Phratochronis qilianensis (IGCAGS V 364)