Evidence of Conodont Predation on Graptolites from the Silurian of Prague Synform

Conodonts and graptolites are among the most important and significant Paleozoic groups from a stratigraphic perspective. Ecologically, they represent different specialists with various life modes and niches (habitats). In a food chain, graptolites would likely occupy the position of primary consumers. Conversely, pelagic conodonts are often considered predators. However, we currently know little about the food sources of conodonts and graptolites, or their mutual interactions. Due to taxonomic reasons, conodonts and graptolites are rarely preserved together in the same outcrops.The Želkovice section in the Prague Synform exposes lower Telychian black shales of the linnaei Biozone, and is one of those rare localities. Among a rich collection of graptolite and conodonts, some graptolite specimens preserve conodont elements stuck between the thecae apertures or inside the thecae of graptolite tubarium. These ‘‘lost teeth‘‘ are visible repeatedly in rows of graptolite thecae of genera Parapetalolithus and Streptograptus. They are interpreted as potential evidence of conodont predation on graptolites.