Preferred Label : otic notch;
Uberon definition : Otic notches are invagination in the posterior margin of the skull roof, one behind
each orbit. Such notches are found in labyrinthodonts and some of their immediate
ancestors, but not their reptilian descendants. The presence or absence of the otic
notches is one of the traits used to separate the amniotes from the amphibian grade
tetrapods.;
Uberon Function note : The notches have been interpreted as part of an auditory structure, and are often
shown holding a tympanum similar to those seen in modern anurans. Analysis of the
columella (the stapes in amphibians and reptiles) of labyrinthodonts however indicate
it did not function in transmitting low energy vibrations, thus rendering them effectively
deaf to airborne sound. The otic notch instead functioned as a spiracle, at least
in the early forms;
Origin ID : 0013222;
part of
Otic notches are invagination in the posterior margin of the skull roof, one behind
each orbit. Such notches are found in labyrinthodonts and some of their immediate
ancestors, but not their reptilian descendants. The presence or absence of the otic
notches is one of the traits used to separate the amniotes from the amphibian grade
tetrapods.
