Allaeochelys crassesculpta

A detailed anatomical and taxonomic study of Allaeochelys crassesculpta, a fossilized softshell turtle from the Messel Pit (Germany), reveals unique cranial and carapace features that distinguish it from other Carettochelyinae. The research, utilizing µCT imaging and morphological analysis, identifies diagnostic traits such as a straight labial margin of the maxilla, a deep quadrate fossa, and a flat ventral surface of the basioccipital, while confirming the absence of nasal bones and carapace scutes. The study also provides an updated diagnosis and comprehensive description of referred specimens from Messel Pit, contributing to our understanding of Eocene turtle evolution.

Rollot, Y., Zuber, M., Hamann, E., & Joyce, W. G. (2026). Allaeochelys crassesculpta. Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/ZENODO.21939049