The histology of the vertebral centrum of the morphologically diverse Temnospondyli is poorly known. In this study, the variability of the histological framework of various taxa from several Permian and Triassic localities was investigated for the first time. Twelve intercentra, forming the anterior part of the diplospondylous centra of temnospondyls, were examined histologically. The intercentra of all studied taxa share a highly vascularized cortex on the ventro-lateral side and primary and secondary trabecular, endochondral bone on the dorsal side. A high variability is present, among others, within the arrangement of the vascular cavities, the density of the trabeculae and the distribution of calcified cartilage. The Stereospondyli possess a high amount of calcified cartilage between the trabeculae, in all other taxa the calcified cartilage covers only the dorsal surface of the intercentrum. Among the plagiosaurids, despite morphological similarities, the intercentra show a different development. In Gerrothorax and Plagiosaurus, periosteal bone is also present on the dorsal side around the neural canal, tentatively indicating a fusion of pleurocentrum and intercentrum. The different histological framework of the investigated intercentra may indicate the phylogenetic value of intercentra microstructure, however further studies are necessary. The preservation of calcified cartilage between the trabeculae seems to be a paedomorphic character typical for all Stereospondyli.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.
customersupport@researchsolutions.com
10624 S. Eastern Ave., Ste. A-614
Henderson, NV 89052, USA
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Copyright © 2024 scite LLC. All rights reserved.
Made with 💙 for researchers
Part of the Research Solutions Family.