A revision and histological investigation of Saltoposuchus connectens (Archosauria: Crocodylomorpha) from the Norian (Late Triassic) of south-western Germany.

This article focuses on a comprehensive revision of the Late Triassic crocodylomorph species *Saltoposuchus connectens*, clarifying its taxonomy, morphology, and phylogenetic relationships. Through detailed osteological comparisons of all referred specimens, including previously contentious skulls SMNS 12591a and SMNS 12352, the study confirms their referral to *Saltoposuchus connectens* and distinguishes this taxon from the closely related but distinct *Terrestrisuchus gracilis*. Histological analysis of a femur (SMNS 12596) reveals highly vascularized fibrolamellar bone tissue indicative of sustained fast growth and a high metabolic rate, supporting an active, cursorial lifestyle. Phylogenetic analysis defines the clade Saltoposuchidae, comprising *Saltoposuchus connectens*, *Terrestrisuchus gracilis*, and *Litargosuchus leptorhynchus*, as a group of gracile, long-legged non-crocodyliform crocodylomorphs with distinct cranial and postcranial synapomorphies. These findings contribute to understanding early crocodylomorph diversity, growth strategies, and ecological roles during the Late Triassic.