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

Location: Kemmerer, Wyoming

Weight: 14.2 Ounces

Dimensions: 6.4 Inches Long, 3.9 Inches Wide, 0.5 Inches Thick (Plate)

Fish Dimensions: 2.8 Inches Long, 0.9 Inches Wide

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56 million years old, Eocene age.

The fossil fish Diplomystus dentatus is easily recognized by its distinctive upturned mouth, a feature that reflects its specialized feeding strategy. This anatomical trait indicates that Diplomystus was adapted for capturing prey near the water’s surface, much like modern surface-feeding fish. Closely related to present-day herrings, Diplomystus likely fed on small fish and other organisms swimming near the top of the water column. This interpretation is supported by fossil evidence, including specimens that preserve the remains of Knightia within their stomach contents.

Approximately 50 million years ago, during the early Paleogene, Fossil Lake occupied a large basin in what is now southwestern Wyoming. At its peak, the lake covered nearly 930 square miles, forming a complex freshwater ecosystem. Although much of the original lake basin has since eroded, roughly 500 square miles of sedimentary deposits remain today. Of particular importance are the central lake-bed deposits, covering about 230 square miles, which are renowned for their extraordinary fossil preservation.

The lake’s unique chemical and environmental conditions played a crucial role in fossilization. Low oxygen levels and unusual water chemistry reduced decay and limited scavenger activity, allowing fine sediments to settle in thin, laminated layers of limestone. These conditions produced one of the world’s richest fossil fish deposits. Beyond fish, Fossil Lake preserves an entire aquatic ecosystem, including algae, plants, insects, crustaceans, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals, providing an unparalleled window into a Paleogene freshwater environment.

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.