Lobed Fins
Lobed fins are a type of fin structure found in certain fish, characterized by their fleshy, rounded appearance. These fins are supported by a series of bones, which allow for greater flexibility and movement compared to the more common ray-finned structure. Lobed fins are primarily seen in species like coelacanths and lungfish, which are considered more closely related to the ancestors of land vertebrates.
The evolution of lobed fins is significant in the study of vertebrate history, as they represent an important step in the transition from water to land. Fossil evidence suggests that lobed fins may have played a crucial role in the development of limbs in early tetrapods, paving the way for the evolution of terrestrial animals.