Neurosensory anatomy and function in Dimetrodon, the first terrestrial apex predator.

ABSTRACT: Dimetrodon is among the most recognizable fossil taxa, as well as the earliest terrestrial amniote apex predator. The neuroanatomy and auditory abilities of Dimetrodon has long been the subject of interest, but palaeoneurological analyses have been limited by the lack of three-dimensional endocast data. The first virtual endocasts reveal a strongly flexed brain with enlarged floccular fossae and a surprisingly well-ossified bony labyrinth clearly preserving the semicircular canals, along with an undifferentiated vestibule and putative perilymphatic duct. This first detailed palaeoneurological reconstruction reveals potential adaptations for a predatory lifestyle and suggests Dimetrodon was able to hear a wider range of frequencies than anticipated, potentially being se

SUBMITTER: Bazzana-Adams KD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10122045 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature