zoom_in Click to enlarge

Doliodus problematicus

▲ ▼

description Doliodus problematicus Overview

Doliodus problematicus is an extinct species of cartilaginous fish that lived during the Early Devonian period, with fossils primarily discovered in New Brunswick, Canada. It is scientifically significant as one of the earliest well-preserved shark relatives, displaying an unusual combination of anatomical features. The species possessed multiple isolated spines and a shark-like body plan, providing critical fossil evidence linking early chondrichthyans to acanthodians.

help Doliodus problematicus FAQ

When did Doliodus problematicus live?

Doliodus problematicus lived during the Early Devonian, roughly 409 million years ago. An articulated fossil specimen was found in New Brunswick, Canada.

Why is Doliodus problematicus important to shark evolution?

It is one of the oldest articulated shark-like cartilaginous fishes known with substantial anatomical detail. Its preserved teeth, skull, fins, and body help researchers study how early chondrichthyans evolved.

Where were the best-known Doliodus problematicus fossils found?

Important fossils come from the Campbellton Formation in New Brunswick, Canada. The New Brunswick Museum specimen is commonly cited in research on the species’ dentition and anatomy.

Did Doliodus have fin spines like some early shark relatives?

The famous articulated specimen was interpreted as preserving fin spines as well as teeth and cartilage. Later work has questioned whether all of those non-tooth elements should be assigned to Doliodus, so the spine interpretation remains scientifically debated.

swap_horiz

Looking for Doliodus problematicus alternatives? Compare top competitors ranked & scored

arrow_forward