JAWS
Contents
- Placoderms
- Evolution of Jaws
- Supporting Facts
- Dunkleosteus
- For More Information
One of the great events in the history of vertebrates was the appearance of jaws. This was
beneficial for many reasons including:
- New lines of adaptations
- New possibilities for evolutionary advancement
- Ability for territorial defense
Placoderms
The first jawed fishes were known as Placoderms and developed in the Devonian Period.
The Placoderms had bony armour that covered the head and forepart of the body.
In many, a movable joint between the head and body armour let the head rock back to open the
mouth wide. The primitive jaws had jagged bony edges that served as teeth. The tail end usually
lacked protection.
Evolution of Jaws
For More Information
Click here for more information on the Evolution of Fish
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This Document Was Created By Julie Hall. DeKalb College, Clarkston, Ga. Last Edited on
11-20-95.