Complete Acanthodian Devonian Fossil Fish Diplacanthus from Scotland

Diplacanthus sp

Acanthodii, Climatiformes, Diplacanthidae

Geological Time: Lower Devonian (375 Million years ago)

Size: 84 mm

Fossil Site: Tynet Burn, Scotland


Permian Fossil Fish DiplacanthusDescription: The Acanthodians are jaw-bearing fish that still are the subject of dispute over their systematic position. Most possessed highly advanced, spindle-shaped bodies thought to have made them swift swimmers. The body was covered in small mosaic-like scales. They possessed small teeth that were typically confined to the lower jaw; some were toothless. The feature they all share in common is the fact that all fins other than the caudal are supported by massive spines Acanthodian fish fossilformed of dentine. Indeed, the name Acanthodii is derived from the Greek word for spine.

The oldest acanthodian lived during the late Ordovician. They reached their peak during the Devonian, and became extinct during the Great Dying of the end-Permian extinction. This well-preserved example is known as Diplacanthus; the genus died out in the upper Devonian. The diplacanthids were deep-bodied when compared to earlier forms; the genus derives its name (paired spines) from the diagnostic spines seen here (the dorsal spines are incomplete). It has been found in the Middle/Late Devonian strata of both Europe and North America. The spines and fine scales are most evident in this specimen contained within a half nodule.

click fossil pictures to enlarge


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