Ontogeny of Ancyrodelloides carlsi (Boersma) and comments on its generic attribution (Conodonta, Lower Devonian)

The ontogeny of the Lochkovian conodont species Ancyrodelloides carlsi (Boersma) is demonstrated thanks to a rich population from Morocco. The studied sample includes elements at various growth stages from juvenile to gerontic. The data are confirmed by several elements in collections from several localities in the Carnic Alps (Italy and Austria). The absence of terraces at every stage of growth and the presence of a strong denticulated lateral process confirms the generic attribution of the species to genus Ancyrodelloides. Comments on the apparatus are provided. The geographical distribution of the species, limited to Europe and the Mediterranean region, challenges its stratigraphic value for long distance correlations.