Paleontology

1979 Edition

Pisces

  • Robert H. Denison
Reference work entry
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/3-540-31078-9_107
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Pisces, a class of vertebrates comprising the true fishes, have the jaws supported by a skeleton derived from primitive gill arches. Typically, they have two sets of paired fins, pectoral and pelvic, as well as dorsal, caudal, and anal fins in the midline. They breathe by means of gills, which are carried on the outer side of the gill arches; and they generally have the skin protected by scales. There are four distinct subclasses whose interrelationships are still controversial. The geological history of Pisces has been reviewed by Romer (1966), Moy-Thomas and Miles (1971), and Thomson (1977).

Subclass Placodermi

Members of the subclass Placodermi (Devonian to lowest Mississippian) are characterized by possession of bones and a neck joint, and by the position of the gills far under the head. Commonly, there are bony head and thoracic shields that articulate in the neck region. But in primitive forms, the shields are little developed and an articulation between the dermal bones is...

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© Dowden, Hutchinson & Ross, Inc. 1979

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  • Robert H. Denison

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