Ancient Jawless Fish Identified as Filter-Feeders, Not Predators
Recent studies using advanced imaging techniques reveal that early Devonian jawless fish primarily used bony mouth structures for filtering food, challenging previous theories of predatory evolution.
- CT scanning and X-ray microtomography uncover the feeding mechanisms of Rhinopteraspis dunensis, a jawless fish from the early Devonian period.
- The fish's mouth structure, consisting of bony plates and projections, was suited for filtering rather than active hunting.
- This finding suggests a diversity of feeding behaviors among the earliest vertebrates, contrary to the trend towards predatory evolution.
- The study, involving multiple international research institutions, highlights the role of non-destructive imaging in studying ancient life forms.
- Research challenges the long-held view that early vertebrate evolution was marked by a shift towards more active food acquisition methods.
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