Skip to content Skip to navigation

Article: Growth and function of spines in the Jurassic ammonite Aspidoceras

Publication: Palaeontology
Volume: 32
Part: 3
Publication Date: October 1989
Page(s): 645 655
Author(s): A. Checa and D. Martin-Ramos
DOI:
Addition Information

How to Cite

CHECA, A., MARTIN-RAMOS, D. 1989. Growth and function of spines in the Jurassic ammonite AspidocerasPalaeontology32, 3, 645–655.

Online Version Hosted By

The Palaeontological Association (Free Access)

Abstract

The structure, mode of growth, and possible function of the spiniform tubercles of the Upper Jurassic ammonite Aspidoceras are described and analysed. Their complex growth pattern is particularly suitable for the construction of long, delicate, hollow spines. These spines probably contained extensions of the mantle, which were in contact with the environment through openings at their tips. Their function is thus inferred to have been primarily sensory.
PalAss Go! URL: http://go.palass.org/4g0 | Twitter: Share on Twitter | Facebook: Share on Facebook | Google+: Share on Google+