Structure, patterns and function of cuticular terraces in trilobites

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Abstract
Cuticular terrace systems are widespread in trilobites. Two different patterns, occurring independently of each other, are recognized: transverse dorsal terraces with the scarp facing backwards and concentric ventral terraces on the doublures with the scarp facing outwards. Ontogenetically, there is a secondary increase of terrace number, so distances between single terraces remain constant. The dorsal terraces functioned to provide unidirectional friction facilitating the burrowing process. The ventral terraces on the doublures were used to consolidate the walls of a filter chamber underneath the animal.

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