What does the backward-angled spine arrangement of Wiwaxia suggest as a potential function besides defense?
Answer
Bracing the creature against strong bottom currents
While the sharp, backward projection of the stiff spines strongly suggests a defensive function against emerging Cambrian predators, an alternative or complementary role relates to environmental stability. Because Wiwaxia appears to have been a slow-moving, bottom-dwelling organism, it would have been vulnerable to hydrodynamic forces. The spines, angled rearward, could have functioned effectively as anchors or braces, digging into the substrate or catching the flow of water to prevent the animal from being swept away by strong currents moving along the seafloor, thus ensuring it remained positioned over its food source.
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Wiwaxia corrugata - Creature of the Cambrian Explosion ~ 505 mya
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