Diplocaulus sp.

Discovered in Texas, Diplocaulus was an early amphibian distinguished by a boomerang shaped head formed by two elongated bones at the back of the skull. This odd shape may have been used as a hydrofoil allowing Diplocaulus to swim against the current. It also would have made it difficult for predators to swallow. Late Carboniferous to late Permian period ( 270 million years ago). Piece created as part of an illustration portfolio of dinosaurs and other prehistoric animals. Oil on masonite, 11 x 14".