Inostrancevia alexandri, an extinct species of gorgonopsid therapsid that inhabited Earth during the Permian period, approximately 270 to 260 million years ago. It was a large predator that ranked high in the food chain of its ecosystem.
This therapsid belonged to the group of gorgonopsids, a family of carnivores that were characterized by their developed fangs and their appearance similar to that of reptiles, although they were more closely related to mammals. The Inostrancevia alexandri is distinguished by several unique anatomical features that set it apart from other therapsids of the time.
One of the most striking features of the Inostrancevia alexandri is its robust and long skull, equipped with a series of sharp, curved teeth. These teeth were ideal for grasping and tearing the flesh of its prey, suggesting that it was a highly specialized predator. Its jaw musculature was also well adapted for applying significant force when biting.
The Inostrancevia alexandri had a large, muscular body, with stout limbs that allowed it to move agilely around its environment. Although not thought to have been particularly fast, its size and strength made it a formidable predator in its habitat. The skin of this animal was probably covered in scales and possibly had adaptive features for camouflage or thermoregulation.
Fossils of Inostrancevia alexandri have been found in various parts of the world, including Russia and South Africa. These fossils have provided valuable information on the anatomy and behavior of this extinct species, as well as on the ecology of the Permian era.
Approximate measurements of the Inostrancevia:
- Scale 1:35 (Full replica)
- Length 95mm
- Height 45mm
- Snout-tail length 111 mm
- Scale 1:20 (Full replica)
- Length 160mm
- Height 75mm
- Snout-tail length 194 mm
