Fig. 236.
Lepidotus Mantelli, Agass. Wealden.
- a. palate and teeth.
- b. side view of teeth.
- c. scale.
The fishes of the Wealden belong partly to the genera Pycnodus and Hybodus (see figure of genus in [Chap. XXI.]), forms common to the Wealden and Oolite; but the teeth and scales of a species of Lepidotus are most widely diffused (see [fig. 236.]). The general form of these fish was that of the carp tribe, although perfectly distinct in anatomical character, and more allied to the pike. The whole body was covered with large rhomboidal scales, very thick, and having the exposed part covered with enamel. Most of the species of this genus are supposed to have been either river fish, or inhabitants of the coasts, having not sufficient powers of swimming to advance into the deep sea.
Fig. 237.
Corbula alata, Fitton. Magnified.