Anthracosauria

fossil tetrapod order

Also known as: anthracosaur

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June 18, 2026

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Anthracosauria is an extinct order of tetrapods that exhibited some reptilian characteristics but are classified as reptile-like amphibians because they could not produce amniotic eggs. These early tetrapods, which lived from the Late Carboniferous period (318 to 299 million years ago), are known from fossils found in North America and Europe. A notable genus within this group is Diplovertebron, characterized by a distinct vertebral column, skull pattern, and five-toed feet. Anthracosaurs evolved from lobe-finned fishes and represent a transitional group in the evolution of terrestrial vertebrates.12

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amphibian
Evolution and classification
The representatives of the anthracosaurs included the embolomers, baphetids, and limnoscelids. Nectrideans and aistopods are often identified as amphibians, but they might be better grouped with the anthracosaurs or listed separately.
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The representatives of the anthracosaurs included the embolomers, baphetids, and limnoscelids. Nectrideans and aistopods are often identified as amphibians, but they might be better grouped with the anthracosaurs or listed separately.
Read More