Alligator Laterosphenoid

The laterosphenoid is the ossified portion of the pila antotica, is only present in Archosauriforms (Crocodyliforms, Dinosaurs, Pterosaurs, and their relatives) and it forms the rostrolateral portion of the braincase. The cerebrum of the brain excavates its medial surface giving it a concave shape. Jaw muscles, namely m. pseudotemporalis superficialis attaches to its lateral surface. The element sutures to the quadrate, pterygoid, basisphenoid, postorbital, and also ends as the cartilage-covered capitate process at the postorbital. The caudoventral corner of the element forms much of the passageway of the trigeminal nerve, including the trigeminal canal, trigeminal fossa and maxillomandibular foramen. The ophthalmic nerve passes through the ophthalmic groove and the maxillary nerve also leaves groove on the bones ventrolateral surface.