Megalampris
Name meaning:
Giant opah
Period of life:
26 million years ago
Period:
Paleogene period
Habitat:
Marine environment
Taxonomy:
Bony fish
Countries:
Pakicetus
Oxyaena
What does the name mean: “giant opah” (from Ancient Greek μέγας — “large, huge” and Lampris — the genus of opahs).
About 26 million years ago, during the Oligocene Epoch, the waters surrounding modern-day New Zealand were inhabited by an extraordinary giant — Megalampris. This fish, a close relative of modern opahs (Lampris), was remarkable for its size: while modern opahs rarely exceed 1.5 meters, with a maximum of about 2 meters, Megalampris reached lengths of up to 4 meters, comparable to the size of a small automobile.
Like its modern relatives, Megalampris possessed a tall, laterally compressed body covered with small scales. This gave it a disk-like appearance which, combined with its bright iridescent coloration, made Megalampris a truly impressive creature. Unfortunately, the coloration of this ancient giant has not been preserved. However, judging by modern opahs, which display vivid red-orange tones with white spots, it can be assumed that Megalampris was no less colorful.
Judging by the structure of its skeleton, Megalampris, like its modern relatives, was an active predator that fed on fish, squid, and other marine inhabitants. It swam in an unusual manner, relying primarily on its powerful pectoral fins and effectively performing an underwater “flight.” Importantly, Megalampris represents a significant link in the evolution of opahs. The study of its remains helps scientists better understand how these remarkable fishes evolved and which factors influenced their evolutionary history.
Discussions
Start a discussion
Other animals
INTERESTING FACTS
PUZZLES
HOME
3D MODEL "SKIN"
3D MODEL "MUSCLES"
3D MODEL "SKELETON"
VISION
NEIGHBORS
VOICE ACTING
AR - MODE
GALLERY
HISTORY OF DISCOVERIES
