The Evolution, Development, and Morphology of Appendicular and Skeletal Novelties of Early Jawed Vertebrates

Abstract

This study explores fundamental questions around the anatomy and development of the early jawed vertebrate appendicular anatomy and skeletal tissues. The morphology and development of the pelvic anatomy in elephant shark is examined to inform on the processes resulting in the extant fin skeletons. The appendicular anatomy of arthrodire placoderms is reconstructed using new morphological data. The combination of fossil and developmental data provides further evidence supporting the serial homology in limbs.