Alyktuninos

Alyktuninos is a genus of extinct teleost fish that lived during the Late Cretaceous period. Fossils of Alyktuninos have been found in the Gobi Desert region of Mongolia. The genus was first described in 1989 by R. K. Gayet and A. M. Biehler.

The anatomy of Alyktuninos suggests it was a small, freshwater fish. Its body shape and fin placement indicate it was likely a bottom-dweller. Several species have been identified within the genus, distinguished by subtle variations in their skeletal structure, particularly in the skull and vertebral column.

The discovery of Alyktuninos in Cretaceous freshwater deposits provides valuable insights into the diversity of freshwater fish ecosystems in Asia during this period. Its presence alongside other fossilized aquatic organisms helps paleontologists reconstruct the ancient environments and food webs of the region. Further research on the Alyktuninos fossils continues to refine our understanding of early teleost evolution and the biogeography of ancient freshwater faunas.