XL 4.2" Diplomystus Dentatus Fossil Fish Green River FM WY Eocene Age COA, Stand

Location: Kemmerer, Wyoming

Weight: 11.5 Ounces

Dimensions: 6.1 Inches Long, 4.3 Inches Wide, 0.4 Inches Thick (Plate)

Fish Dimensions: 4.2 Inches Long, 1.4 Inches Wide

Comes with a Free Stand.

Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

The item pictured is the one you will receive.

56 million years old, Eocene age.

This Diplomystus dentatus specimen represents a significant paleontological acquisition from the Green River Formation of southwestern Wyoming, dating to the middle Eocene epoch, approximately fifty million years ago. The taxon's morphological characteristics—particularly its anteriorly positioned mouth—reflect specialization for epipelagic feeding behavior, a dietary preference substantiated by taphonomic evidence of Knightia remains within gastric cavities. The specimen derives from ancient Fossil Lake, a lacustrine system that once encompassed roughly 930 square miles before diagenetic processes reduced the preserved sedimentary record to approximately 500 square miles. The lake's distinctive geochemical regime—characterized by elevated alkalinity and reduced oxygen availability—inhibited microbial decomposition and macrofaunal scavenging, facilitating the accumulation of finely laminated limestone sequences. These deposits preserve an exceptionally diverse Paleogene freshwater biota encompassing autotrophic organisms, aquatic invertebrates, vertebrate fauna spanning multiple trophic levels, and a rich terrestrial assemblage including early equids, ophidians, chiropterans, and primitive carnivores, alongside an extensive paleobotanical record exceeding 325 taxa. Systematic collection since the 1870s has established the Green River Formation as the world's preeminent source for Eocene ichthyofauna. Includes certificate of authenticity and display stand.

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.