"Kenichthys" is important to the study of the evolution of tetrapods due to the nature of its nostrils. Most non-tetrapod vertebrates (e.g. actinopterygians) possess two sets of nostrils, one set at either end of the nasal cavity, and both sets of which are external. These nostrils play no part in respiration, instead serving an olfactory role. However, in all crown group tetrapods and many stem tetrapods one set of nostrils is found exteriorly, and another interiorly, in the roof of the palate. This arrangement means that the nasal passage leads from the outside of the body into the mouth. The ‘inner set’ of nostrils are known as choanae, and allow tetrapods to breathe through their nose.