1.3 Amia
Amia (the bowfin) represents a group of ray-finned fish that are closely related to, but lie just outside of, the teleost radiation. Teleosts have a tendency to reduce the amount of sheet-like dermal bone covering their skulls – this has enabled them to modify their jaw mechanisms. Amia retains much of the primitive dermal bone.
Above: Head of Amia as seen from above.
Above: Head of Amia as seen from the right.
Above: Head of Amia as seen from the front right.
Above: Head of Amia as seen from below (the front if to the bottom of the picture).
Above: Head of Amia as seen from behind.
Try to identify the dermal jaw bones (the premaxilla, maxilla and dentary) that possess teeth. Identify the eye socket (the orbit). Is a bony opercular plate (gill cover) present?
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