Atrilistus

Atrilistus is a genus of extinct ray-finned fish that lived during the Early Jurassic epoch. Fossils of Atrilistus have been found in deposits dating back to the Hettangian and Sinemurian stages, approximately 201 to 190 million years ago. The most significant fossil discoveries have originated from the Posidonia Shale formation in Germany, a Lagerstätte renowned for its exceptional preservation of marine life.

Atrilistus is characterized by its fusiform body shape, which suggests it was a relatively active swimmer. Its fins were well-developed, and its skeletal structure indicates it was likely a predatory fish, feeding on smaller invertebrates or other fish. The genus is classified within the order Pholidophoriformes, a group of primitive ray-finned fishes that represent an early branch in actinopterygian evolution. Atrilistus provides valuable insights into the diversity and ecology of marine faunas during the critical period following the Triassic-Jurassic extinction event, a time of significant faunal turnover and diversification in the oceans. Its presence in the fossil record helps paleontologists reconstruct the ancient ecosystems of the Early Jurassic seas.