The First Evidence of Tactile Sensor Zones among Dicynodonts (Therapsida)

The First Evidence of Tactile Sensor Zones among Dicynodonts (Therapsida)

For the first time evedences of possible tactile sensor zones has been described in representative of non-theriodont clade of therapsids – Myosaurus gracilis (Dicynodontia). The system of foramina and grooves reflecting well developed blood network on the snout of Myosaurus is generally similar to the same descried for theriodonts and possibly represents development of sensor zones. Very large orbits and developed sensor fields on the snout of Myosaurus the most probably indicates the nocturnal mode of life and support previous ideas on omnivorous feeding.