Species · GBIF taxon 4964958
Dimetrodon milleri
Dimetrodon milleriAlso known as Miller's Dimetrodon
Among the oldest and smallest known members of its lineage, Dimetrodon milleri was an active apex predator of the Early Permian floodplains. Its jaws showcased specialized heterodont dentition, boasting sharp incisors, stout stabbing canines, and serrated shearing teeth designed to dismember prey. The distinctive dorsal sail formed by elongated neural spines likely assisted in rapid thermoregulation and visual territorial displays.
FossilSynapsid
Licensed referenceH. Zell / CC BY-SA 3.0 · cc-by-sa
—observations
—countries
—peak records
ExtinctConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXExtinctRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Temnospondyl amphibians
- Xenacanth sharks
- Small early tetrapods
Predators
- Larger sphenacodontids
ThreatsEnvironmental aridification and habitat loss during the Early Permian
HabitatsPermian river floodplains, swamp margins, and deltaic lowlands
Life spanApproximately 15–25 years
Classification
- FamilySphenacodontidae
- SpeciesDimetrodon milleri
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Extinct prehistoric species known only from fossil remains.
Responsible observation
- Fossil Hunting: Search Permian red bed exposures with proper legal permits and field gear.
- Museum Viewing: Examine fossilized jaws to observe the distinct tooth differentiation.
Competitor jonathan Chen / CC BY-SA 4.0 · cc-by-sa
Image unavailablePrey 
Close Relative H. Zell / CC BY-SA 3.0 · cc-by-sa
Close Relative H. Zell / CC BY-SA 3.0 · cc-by-sa
Same Family Smokeybjb / CC BY-SA 3.0 · cc-by-sa
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