Table of data derived from the optimum gape calculations.

The final column (comparing all species at a mandibular length of 60 cm) was used to directly compare the influence gape mechanics has on optimum prey depth. Note, data for Metriorhynchus superciliosus, “Metriorhynchus” brachyrhynchus, “Mr Leeds’ specimen” and Dakosaurus andiniensis are from Young et al. [2]. Note that the only complete mandible of “Mr Leeds’ specimen” is from a sub-adult; therefore the maximum known optimum prey depth is not from an adult. This taxon is a new genus and species; however the paper establishing these names is still in press [2].