Fig. 7. Correlating suture shape and function in Polypterus using microCT slices. Line drawings of each suture are provided to the right of the actual slice images. The interparietal (IP) suture, which is loaded in compression during suction and biting, is highly interdigitated in cross section. In contrast, the interfrontal (IF) suture has an abutting (i.e. flat-edged) morphology and is typically loaded in tension during suction and biting. The frontoparietal (FP) suture, however, is highly overlapping, and is loaded in tension or compression, and may experience a shift in strain polarity during suction and biting. Pa, parietal; Fr, frontal.