The research history of the Middle Triassic fishes of Monte San Giorgio: getting out of the shadow of aquatic reptiles

A rich and diverse fish fauna from the Middle Triassic period, previously overshadowed by more spectacular aquatic reptiles, has been brought to the forefront through systematic research on fossils from Monte San Giorgio. This study reveals a species-rich ecosystem with six distinct fossiliferous beds, dating back to the Anisian and Ladinian ages. The findings include well-preserved chondrichthyans, coelacanths, and numerous actinopterygian taxa, offering new insights into their taxonomy, palaeobiology, palaeoecology, and palaeobiogeography. Ongoing work not only identifies taxonomic novelties but also sheds light on the ecological and geographical distribution of these ancient fishes.

Bürgin, T. (2024). The research history of the Middle Triassic fishes of Monte San Giorgio: getting out of the shadow of aquatic reptiles. Swiss Journal of Palaeontology, 143(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13358-024-00313-w