Diplocaulus magnicornis is an extinct species of amphibian that lived during the Permian period, approximately 270 to 260 million years ago. It falls within the group of lepospondyls, which were primitive amphibians that exhibited characteristics of both modern amphibians and reptiles.
The most distinctive feature of Diplocaulus magnicornis was its peculiar skull, which resembled the shape of a "shovel" or "boomerang". It had an elongated, flat skull with upward-curving lateral edges, giving it a unique appearance. In addition, it had two long, prominent horns on the back of its head, hence the name "magnicornis", which translates as "big horns".
This specialized skull is believed to have enabled Diplocaulus magnicornis to swim efficiently in the ancient lakes and rivers where it lived, as its streamlined shape probably contributed to reducing water resistance.
The exact function of the horns on the back of the skull is not completely clear and has been the subject of debate among scientists. Various theories have been proposed, including possible defensive, attractive functions, or simply as a sexually dimorphic trait.
Diplocaulus magnicornis was an amphibian with a length of around 1 meter. Fossils of this species have been found in Permian deposits in North America, specifically in areas that currently correspond to the United States, such as Texas.
Approximate Measurements of the Base:
Scale 1:10 - 60 mm diameter
