Rare Astephus Catfish Fossil from Green River

Astephus antiquus

Class Osteichthyes, Order Siluriformes, Family Ictaluridae

Geologic Time: Eocene

Size: Fossil fish is 5 3/8” in length on a 6” x 6” plate

Fossil Site: Laney Shale Member of the Green River River Formation, near La Barge, Wyoming


Astephus antiguusDescription: This mature adult catfish fossil from the Green River Formation is exceptionally rare. Statistical data show that genus Astephus comprised a mere few per cent of the Lake Gosiute fish population. Their stout dorsal and pectoral spines, scale less bodies and broad skull easily define Green River catfish. Ictalurid species have four pairs of barbels (or whiskers). Catfish are an ancient order of fish. Appearing in the Cretaceous fossil Catfishrecord with the dinosaurs, Cretaceous period have been discovered, Order Siluriformes is a highly diverse group of the ray-finned fishes.

The Astephus is showing in a right side view. The skull had twisted over in death and shows ventrally with interior detail. The anal and tail fins show well, and the left pectoral fin, along with a spine is visible. The right pectoral fin and a spine are partially intact. There are two additional unidentified partial fish on the plate. The fish has a rust color, and rests comfortably on a mottled oil shale plate.

click fossil pictures to enlarge

Astephus antiguus
Rare Astephus Catfish Fossil from Green River
 
 

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