Fish Fossil, Priscacara

Priscacara is an extinct genus of freshwater fish that lived during the Eocene epoch, approximately 56 to 34 million years ago. The name "Priscacara" means "ancient face" in Latin. Priscacara fossils have been found in North America, particularly in the Green River Formation, which spans parts of Wyoming, Colorado, and Utah. These fish were relatively small, typically measuring around 20 to 30 centimeters in length. They had a compressed body shape and are classified as members of the family Centrarchidae, which includes modern-day sunfish. Priscacara fossils provide important insights into the ancient ecosystems and biodiversity of freshwater habitats during the Eocene.Their preservation in the Green River Formation has yielded numerous well-preserved specimens, making them valuable for scientific study and understanding the evolutionary history of freshwater fish.