Palinacanthate

Palinacanthate is a subclass of the class Actinopterygii, which includes ray-finned fishes. The subclass is characterized by the presence of a single row of teeth on each side of the upper jaw, with the teeth being replaced throughout the fish's life. This subclass is further divided into two orders: the Lepisosteiformes, which includes the gar and bowfin, and the Acipenseriformes, which includes the sturgeons and paddlefish.

The name "Palinacanthate" comes from the Greek words "palin," meaning "again," and "akantha," meaning "thorn," referring to the replacement of teeth. The subclass is believed to have originated during the Late Devonian period, around 370 million years ago. The palinacanthate fishes are known for their unique feeding habits, using their teeth to filter food from the water.

The subclass is of particular interest to paleontologists and ichthyologists due to the fossil record of these fishes dating back to the Devonian period. The study of palinacanthate fishes provides valuable insights into the evolution of jawed vertebrates and the development of modern fish diversity.