hapettumisriskia

Hapettumisriskia is a genus of small, extinct mammals that lived during the Eocene epoch, approximately 56 to 34 million years ago. The genus is known from a single species, Hapettumisriskia minor, which was discovered in the Messel Pit, a famous fossil site in Germany. The name Hapettumisriskia is derived from the Greek words "hapetus," meaning "to seize," and "riskia," referring to the risk of extinction.

Hapettumisriskia minor is notable for its small size, with an estimated body length of around 10 centimeters. It is classified within the order Rodentia, but its exact placement within this group is uncertain due to its incomplete fossil record. The genus is of particular interest to paleontologists because it provides insights into the early evolution of rodents and the diversity of small mammals during the Eocene.

The Messel Pit fossils, including those of Hapettumisriskia, are renowned for their exceptional preservation, which allows scientists to study the soft tissues and internal structures of these ancient animals. This level of detail is rare in paleontology and has contributed significantly to our understanding of the biology and behavior of Eocene mammals.

Despite its scientific significance, Hapettumisriskia remains a relatively obscure genus, largely due to the limited number of fossils and the challenges associated with studying such small, delicate specimens. Ongoing research and the discovery of additional fossils may shed further light on the biology and ecology of this enigmatic Eocene mammal.