New data on Scalopognathus multituberculatus, a theriodont from the Lower Triassic of the Pechora basin (Komi Republic), with special reference to the taxonomic status of scaloposaurs

In Scalopognathus multituberculatus, the neural arch of the proatlas is located in the fossa on the exoccipital and joined to the pseudozygapophyseal process of the latter. The basipterygoid articulation is mobile and formed by the epipterygoid and basisphenoid. The carotid and vidian canals are absent. The stapes articulates with the quadrate only at the edge and adjoins the articular when jaws are closed. The apex of the coronary process is not higher than the surangular and has lost contact with the external adductor of the lower jaw. Scaloposaurs are distinguished as an independent group of the same rank as therocephals.