An even older unnamed fossil billfish from the North Island of New Zealand, Zealandorhynchus fordycei, provides some clues to that evolution. This thrilling discovery is dedicated to the memory of the late Emeritus Professor Ewan Fordyce. Dr Seabourne Rust, who pioneered the study that made this remarkable find, published in the journal Gondwana Research. Fordyce, an internationally renowned vertebrate palaeontologist, spent more than 40 years at the University of Otago. He published or conceived of many foundational theories and applications during that period that fundamentally shaped our field.
Paleontologists discovered the fossilized skull of Zealandorhynchus fordycei. This very cool discovery happened pretty much next door to where a similar but much older fossil fish skull was uncovered almost 40 years ago. Scientists think this new billfish species is a relict of primitive extinct billfishes. These fish have gained international fame due to their strikingly long, spear-like upper jaws that they use to knock out and capture their prey. The roughly 50 cm long skull likely belonged to an adult individual that reached several meters in length.
Honoring a Legacy
Though Ewan Fordyce’s legacy is now sorely missed, his pioneering research and ideas will continue to influence vertebrate palaeontology for decades to come. He was a world authority on fossil whales and dolphins over his long distinguished career. His pioneering fieldwork in North Otago and Canterbury proved instrumental as a result. His dedication to the complex and ever-changing field motivated countless students and researchers, enriching the lives of all.
Dr. Seabourne Rust expressed gratitude for Fordyce’s contributions, stating, “The more complete [skull] belongs to a [new genus] and species that we have named Zealandorhynchus fordycei, after the late Professor Fordyce.” This honorific naming recognizes the extraordinary contributions Fordyce has made to the scientific community so far. More significantly, it highlights his critical contribution to our understanding of ancient marine life.
Insights into Early Eocene Ecosystems
With the discovery of Zealandorhynchus fordycei the fossil record is very much enriched. Beyond that, it sheds crucial light on the ecosystems of New Zealand in the Early Eocene. The region where the species’ skull was found is notoriously sparse in major finds, heightening the significance surrounding the emergence of this new species.
Dr. Rust noted, “These billfish specimens represent notable additions to a rather sparse Early Eocene fish macrofossil record from New Zealand.” This finding demonstrates the importance of continued exploration and research in understanding the biodiversity that existed millions of years ago.
A Step Forward for Palaeontology
The recognition of Zealandorhynchus fordycei illustrates the positive developments coming out of the palaeontological community in seeking to discover and understand ancient species. The way that these fossils have been carefully prepared has opened up exciting new knowledge about these ancient animals that once lived in New Zealand’s oceans.
Scientists are currently analyzing these remarkable fossils. Together, they hope to address key missing pieces of our understanding of the history of evolution on Earth, and the ecosystems in our oceans. Ewan Fordyce’s legacy will continue to inspire investigations into the lives of ancient marine creatures like him. It will inspire a new generation of palaeontologists to take the plunge into the depths of time and reveal the secrets of ancient ages.