Ierobeosaurus

Ierobeosaurus is a genus of extinct fish belonging to the order Anacanthodes, which is part of the larger group Actinopterygii, the ray-finned fishes. The only known species within this genus is Ierobeosaurus lithographica. Fossils of Ierobeosaurus have been discovered in the Solnhofen Limestone Formation of Bavaria, Germany, a lagerstätte renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved fossils from the Late Jurassic period.

Ierobeosaurus lithographica is characterized by its elongated body and relatively small fins. Its skeletal structure indicates it was a nektonic organism, capable of active swimming. The fossil remains suggest a predatory lifestyle, likely feeding on small invertebrates or other small fish. The fine detail preserved in the Solnhofen fossils allows for a close examination of its scale patterns and fin ray counts, providing valuable information about its phylogenetic relationships within ancient fish lineages. The genus name Ierobeosaurus, derived from Greek, refers to its perceived relationship with other ancient fish groups. The species name lithographica refers to the lithographic limestone in which it was found. Studying Ierobeosaurus contributes to our understanding of the diversity and evolution of fish during the Mesozoic Era.