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GYROPTYCHIUS
(gry-op-tie-ke-us)
Gyroptychius
Named By: F. M'Coy in 1848
Time Period: Mid Devonian
Location: Scotland
Size: About 30 centimetres long
Diet: Carnivore/Piscivore
Fossil(s): Few specimens
Classification: | Chordata | Sarcopterygii | Coelacanthiformes |
Also known as: | Glyptolepis microlepidotus |
About

Gyroptychius is an extinct genus of coelacanthiform lobe-finned fish from the Devonian period.

Gyroptychius was a fast riverine predator with an elongated body about 30 centimetres (12 in) long. As its eyes were relatively small, it is presumed to have hunted by smell rather than sight. Gyroptychius had short jaws which gave it a powerful bite. All its fins except the pectorals were moved to the back to the body, increasing the power of the tail while swimming.

Read more about Gyroptychius at Wikipedia
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