Home Animals A-Z
Animals A-Z >  Dunkleosteus
Dunkleosteus

Dunkleosteus terrelli dominated Devonian seas with its formidable bite and armored head. This ancient predator, reaching lengths of 10 meters, crushed prey with razor-sharp bony plates. Dunkleosteus exemplifies prehistoric marine power and innovation, shaping ancient ecosystems with its unrivaled predatory prowess.

3991.52 kg
Weight
Length: 4.57 - 8.78 m
Size
Characteristics
Dunkleosteus terrelli was a prehistoric armored fish that lived about 358-382 million years ago during the Devonian Period. It was a top predator, growing up to 10 meters long and weighing over a ton. Dunkleosteus had powerful jaws lined with sharp bony plates capable of crushing its prey.
Distribution Range of the Dunkleosteus
Dunkleosteus terrelli was a prehistoric placoderm fish that existed during the Late Devonian period, approximately 358-382 million years ago. Its fossils have been found primarily in North America, specifically in regions that are now Ohio, Pennsylvania, and other parts of the eastern United States.
Dunkleosteus's Habitat
Environmental Conditions
During the Late Devonian, the regions where Dunkleosteus terrelli lived were covered by shallow seas. The climate was generally warm, and the sea levels were high, creating vast continental shelf areas that were rich in marine life.
Ecological Niche
Dunkleosteus terrelli was a top predator in its marine ecosystem. Its ecological niche involved preying on other fish and marine animals, utilizing its powerful jaws and armored body to dominate its environment. It likely inhabited the open waters of the shallow seas, where it could hunt effectively.