UV Autofluorescence Microscopy of Oklahoma Permian Synapsid Femur (DimetrodonCope, 1878) Reveals Blood Clots in Vascular Canals

Abstract

Abstract:Dimetrodonsp. femur, jaw, teeth, and rib bones were collected at N.E. Frederick, OK, and sectioned for histological examination. This Oklahoma Museum of Natural History site has yielded well-preserved Paleozoic fossils for decades. All bones were heavily infiltrated with calcite and other minerals, yet a reddish-brown mass obstructed many vascular channels. This reddish-brown mass reacted to 374 nm UV illumination by emitting bright blue autofluorescence. This was true for every specimen and indicates a heavy presence of iron. We conclude that the iron in the canals is the crystallized remains of blood that clotted during an asphyxiation event that killed the animal. Remarkably similar reddish-brown obstructive material has also been observed in other histological studies performed onDimetrodonbones. We conclude that these are also the remains of blood clots and simply await examination under UV fluorescence.