Development of Head and Pectoral Girdle Skeleton and Scales in Acipenser

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Abstract
The development of the head skeleton, pectoral girdle and scales in Acipenser was studied to better identify the bony components and ontogenetic sequences. The endocranium has been drastically altered in form and in the reduction of its ossifications, but the dermal head skeleton is basically that of an actinopterygian fish which shows many regressive tendencies such as the variable multiplication of ossified units. The jaws in this group are unique both in terms of suspension and in lacking a premaxilla. The posttemporal of the pectoral girdle has a unique relationship with the endocranium which involves the exclusion of the lateral extrascapular. An interclavicle is present. Despite such features, the developmental story and adult ossifications of the sturgeon support the idea of a common and understandable bone pattern in actinopterygians and osteichthians.

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