Clusii

Clusii is a genus of extinct ray-finned fish that lived during the Eocene epoch. Fossils of Clusii have been found in various locations, primarily in Europe. The genus is characterized by its deep, laterally compressed body and a single dorsal fin. Its mouth was typically small, suggesting a diet of small invertebrates or plankton.

The specific classification and evolutionary relationships of Clusii have been the subject of study and debate among paleontologists. While generally considered to belong to the order Perciformes, its precise placement within that order and its relationship to modern fish families are not definitively established. Researchers analyze skeletal structures, particularly the skull, vertebrae, and fin rays, to understand its evolutionary history and ecological role in ancient aquatic environments.

Fossil discoveries of Clusii contribute to our understanding of Eocene fish diversity and the paleoecology of the regions where they are found. The preservation quality of Clusii fossils can vary, with some specimens offering detailed anatomical information and others being more fragmentary. Ongoing research may lead to further refinements in its classification and understanding of its life history.