Undescribed Spadefish #1

This is an absolutely exceptional fossil fish specimen which we now believe, through the help of Prof Matt Friedman, represents an early member of the Spadefish family (Ephippidae). This was found by Dan Hogburn (and expertly prepped by Tony Vale) in Division D/E of the London Clay on the Isle of Sheppey. This specimen would benefit from further research given the exceptional details preserved.

Distinguishing Characteristics:

Eye orbit clearly situated on side of flank as with most ‘flatfish’ (1)
Short, robust, toothless dentary (2)
Visible line of pterygiophores to support the dorsal fin which extends the length of the fish (3)
Visible line of pterygiophores to support the anal fin which extends the length of the fish (4)

Primary Example: Dan Hogburn Specimen

3D Surface Scan of Unique Spadefish:

3D scans undertaken by Tom Sermon with permission.

References

Casier, E. (1966) Fauna ichthyologique du London Clay. British Museum Natural History London, 1966, 1-496
Monsch, K (2005) Revision of the scombroid fishes from the Cenozoic of England
Rayner, Mitchell, Clouter (2009) London Clay Fossils of Kent and Essex