Morphology and function of the sutures in the dermal skull roof of Discosauriscus austriacus Makowsky; 1876 (Seymouriamorpha; Lower Permian of Moravia) and Onchiodon labyrinthicus Geinitz; 1861 (Temnospondyli; Lower Permian of Germany)

Abstract Sutural patterns in the dermal skull roof were among others studied in Discosauriscus austriacus (Seymouriamorpha) and Onchiodon labyrinthicus (Temnospondyli). Main sutural structures are defined as lamellae; shelves; vertical walls; and grooves. These types have different functional manifestations. The basic pattern is described for Discosauriscus austriacus. Similarities of patterns in taxa not closely related are most likely a result of convergence. Intraspecific variability is generally low but can be observed during ontogeny. The patterns of subjacent areas in Eusthenopteron foordi (Osteolepiformes) are very similar to Discosauriscus austriacus. It is shown that sutural morpho…