3.8" Diplomystus Dentatus Fossil Fish Green River FM WY Eocene Age COA, Stand

Location: Kemmerer, Wyoming

Weight: 5.5 Ounces

Dimensions: 4.8 Inches Long, 4.3 Inches Wide, 0.2 Inches Thick (Plate)

Fish Dimensions: 3.8 Inches Long, 1.3 Inches Wide

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56 million years old, Eocene age.

The fossil fish Diplomystus dentatus is distinguished by its upward-facing mouth, an anatomical feature that reveals its specialization for feeding at the water’s surface. This trait suggests that Diplomystus hunted prey swimming in the uppermost layers of the lake, similar to many modern surface-feeding fish. Closely related to herrings, it likely targeted small fish, a conclusion supported by fossil specimens that preserve the remains of Knightia within their abdominal cavities.

Fossil Lake existed approximately 50 million years ago in what is now southwestern Wyoming and once covered an area of roughly 930 square miles. This expansive freshwater body formed a highly productive ecosystem. Although erosion has reduced the extent of preserved sediments, around 500 square miles remain today. Of particular importance are the 230 square miles of central lake-bed deposits, which are renowned for their thinly laminated limestone and exceptional fossil preservation.

The remarkable fossil record of Fossil Lake is the result of unique environmental conditions. Low oxygen levels and specific chemical properties of the water slowed decomposition and reduced scavenging. These factors allowed organisms to be buried rapidly in fine sediments, preserving delicate structures. As a result, Fossil Lake contains one of the richest fossil fish deposits in the world, along with a diverse array of plants, insects, crustaceans, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals.

Please be aware of the nature of fossils:

Being buried underground for millions of years under immense pressure is a tough process. Rarely does a fossil emerge intact and perfect. Most fossils require some restoration, and some are modified by humans to improve their appearance. These features are part of the fossil's natural charm and should not be seen as flaws.