Aspidorhynchus

Science Name

Halecomorphi

Description

Aspidorhynchus was a slender, fast-swimming fish.They are closely related to the modern teleosts ,and most probably shared a common ancestry with them. Only a single species of aspidorhynchid survives today the bowfin, Amia calva, of North American freshwarers,looked like the modern gar, or garpike (Lepisos- teus) of North America.

Habitat

Its elongated body protected by thick scales, was perfectly adapted for fast swimming. The symmetrical tail propelled it, the dorsal and anal fins stabilized it, and the paired pectoral and pelvic fins kept it on course.

Behaviour

The jaws were studded with sharp, pointed teeth, and the upper jaw was elongated into a toothless guard.Aspidorhynchus must have been a ferocious predator.

Life History

The Aspidorhynchus acutirostris first inhabited the ancient Jurassic seas two hundred million years ago. This fish is a member of an extinct group of bony fishes called Aspidorhynchids

Region Found

Antarctica and Europe (England, France and Germany)