What is "desmatochelys"

Desmatochelys is an extinct genus of sea turtles belonging to the family Protostegidae.

The genus contains the following species:

1. Desmatochelys lowi
2. Desmatochelys padillai

According to Elizabeth L. Nicholls the genus should be expanded to include closely related members belong to Notochelone and Rhinochelys.

As of 2015, D. padillai is the oldest known species of sea turtles.

Members of the genus are characterised by the extended skull roof, large nasal bones, a paddle-like humerus and a distinct body shell or carapace.