iliottapa

Iliottapa is a genus of extinct fish that lived during the Devonian period. Fossils of iliottapa have been found in the Gogo Formation of Western Australia. These fossils date back approximately 380 million years. The Gogo Formation is renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved vertebrate fossils, providing a unique glimpse into the early evolution of jawed fishes.

The anatomy of iliottapa suggests it was a placoderm, a group of armored fish that were dominant during the Devonian. Placoderms are characterized by their bony plates that covered their heads and pectoral girdles. While specific details about iliottapa's appearance are still being studied, its classification within the placoderms places it among some of the earliest vertebrates to possess jaws.

The discovery and study of iliottapa contribute to our understanding of the diversification of early vertebrate life. Its presence in the Gogo Formation highlights the ecological complexity of Devonian marine environments and the evolutionary innovations that allowed these ancient fishes to thrive. Research into iliottapa and other Gogo fossils continues to shed light on the transition from jawless to jawed vertebrates and the subsequent radiation of fish.