Ichthyodectes: Research Database
Theropoda · Cretaceous · Unknown
Research Note: Ichthyodectes was a theropoda from the Cretaceous of Unknown, providing important data on prehistoric life and ecosystem dynamics.
| Research Finding | Status | Grade | Year | Method | Citation | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Hay 1898: Ichthyodectes and related taxa American Journal of Science | Confirmed | B | 1898 | Fossil | Hay, American Journal of Science | Taxonomy |
Everhart Hageman Hoffman 2010: Ichthyodectes and related taxa Transactions of the Kansas Academy of Science | Confirmed | C | 2010 | Fossil | Everhart Hageman Hoffman, Transactions of the Kansas Academy of Science | Taxonomy |
What We Still Do Not Know About Ichthyodectes
- Complete skeletal morphology and ecological role.
- Phylogenetic relationships within Theropoda.
- Distribution and evolutionary history.
In Depth
Like with relative genera such as Gillicus and Xiphactinus, Ichthyodectes would have been a key predator in the waters of the Western Interior Seaway, the shallow sea that submerged the central portion of North America during the Cretaceous. Ichthyodectes had a long body similar to that of a modern day barracuda and was well adapted for efficient high speed cruising, as well as bursts of intense speed.
Further Reading
- Another Sternberg “Fish-within-a-Fish” Discovery: First Report of Ichthyodectes ctenodon (Teleostei; Ichthyodectiformes) with Stomach Contents. - Transactions of the Kansas Academy of Science 113(3 & 4):197-205. - Michael J. Everhart, Scott A. Hageman & Brian L. Hoffman - 2010.
