Otic notch

Otic notches

Otic notches are small indented areas found at the back of the skull roof, one behind each eye socket. They are special markings that help scientists understand how ancient animals evolved.

These notches were once thought to be part of a hearing system. But studies show that their ear bones couldn’t pick up quiet sounds. Instead, these otic notches probably served as openings called spiracles in the earliest forms of these animals.

This feature is important because it shows how animals changed over time.