First rhynchocephalian (Reptilia, Lepidosauria) from the Cretaceous–Paleogene of India

Rhynchocephalia, a once diverse clade of lizard-like reptiles, had nearly global distribution during much the Mesozoic. By Late Cretaceous rhynchocephalians underwent marked reduction in their diversity and biogeographic range, with sparse records only deeply nested taxa (e.g., Sphenodontinae) found Upper Cretaceous–Paleocene Patagonia Miocene–Recent New Zealand. Here we describe partial dentary teeth rhynchocephalian from Naskal locality, an intertrappean deposit within Deccan Traps Volcanic Province peninsular India. This discovery represents first Cretaceous–Paleogene (K–Pg) record outside and: (i) demonstrates broader Gondwanan than previously appreciated (ii) reinforces emerging pattern that Rhynchocephalia were confined to Gondwana after Early Cretaceous. further extends India, which now spans most Mesozoic (Late Triassic ca. K–Pg boundary). The is member Acrosphenodontia based on its regionalized, acrodont marginal dentition. Its hatchling appear be unique crowns mesially tipped, distinct break slope along distal margin) similar morphology those Godavarisaurus lateefi Lower–Middle Jurassic Although likely was deposited latest Maastrichtian, additional fossil sampling across boundary India needed determine whether victim or survivor end-Cretaceous mass extinction.