The Dunkleosteus did have gills. In fact, the gills were a vital respiratory organ for this ancient fish. The presence of gills allowed Dunkleosteus to extract oxygen from the water, enabling it to breathe underwater.
The gills of Dunkleosteus were located in the area immediately behind its jaw hinge. This is where the wounds on the three specimens were concentrated, as mentioned in the question. These wounds could be interpreted as evidence of predation or territorial disputes among Dunkleosteus individuals.
To understand the importance of gills for Dunkleosteus, it is necessary to delve into the anatomy and physiology of this prehistoric fish. Like modern fish, Dunkleosteus had a specialized structure called gill arches, which supported the gill filaments. The gill filaments were thin, branching structures that increased the surface area available for gas exchange.
Water enters the fish’s mouth and passes over the gills, allowing oxygen to diffuse into the bloodstream while carbon dioxide is expelled. This process is facilitated by the movement of the fish’s mouth and operculum, a bony flap that covers and protects the gills.
It is worth noting that the Dunkleosteus was a formidable predator, known for its massive size and powerful jaw. However, it is important to differentiate between the presence of gills and the wounds observed in the specimens. While the wounds were found in the gill area, they were not inflicted on the gills themselves.
The wounds could have been a result of intraspecific combat, where Dunkleosteus individuals engaged in territorial disputes or fought for mates. The strong jaws of Dunkleosteus, coupled with its sharp and bony plates, could have caused these injuries during aggressive encounters.
Dunkleosteus did have gills, which were crucial for its survival as an aquatic organism. The wounds observed in the specimens were not related to the presence of gills but could be attributed to intraspecific combat. These wounds were concentrated in the area behind Dunkleosteus’ jaw hinge, where its gills were located. The study of these wounds provides valuable insights into the behavior and interactions of this ancient fish species.