Lampidestus

Lampidestus is a genus of extinct ray-finned fish that lived during the Late Cretaceous period. Fossil remains of Lampidestus have been found in what is now Europe. The genus was first described by Louis Agassiz in 1843.

The typical morphology of Lampidestus includes a streamlined body shape, a single dorsal fin, and a forked caudal fin. The scales were generally cycloid. While detailed anatomical studies are limited due to the nature of fossil preservation, available evidence suggests a predatory or scavenging lifestyle. The specific ecological role of Lampidestus within its Cretaceous environment is not fully understood.

Fossils of Lampidestus are relatively rare, contributing to a less complete understanding of its evolutionary relationships compared to more abundant fossil fish. However, it is generally placed within the order Clupeiformes, which includes modern-day herrings and sardines. Further discoveries and analyses are needed to refine its phylogenetic position and shed more light on its biology and paleoecology. The genus is represented by a few described species, each distinguished by subtle differences in skeletal features.