First fossilized skin of a giant penguin from the Eocene of Antarctica. (15th January 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Acosta Hospitaleche, Carolina; De Los Reyes, Martín; Santillana, Sergio; Reguero, Marcelo
• Is Part Of: Lethaia. Volume 53:Number 3(2020)
• Page Start: 409
• Page End: 420
• Publication Date: 2020-01-15
• Subjects: Lutetian -- mineralized integument -- Palaeeudyptes gunnari -- Palaeogene -- Seymour Island -- Submeseta Formation; Paleontology -- Periodicals; Geology, Stratigraphic -- Periodicals; 560
• DOI: 10.1111/let.12366
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0024-1164

Abstract

Abstract : An articulated wing belonging to Palaeeudyptes gunnari containing mineralized skin was found in Lutetian (middle Eocene) sediments from Seymour Island, Antarctica. It shows the connective tissues, morphology and density of the feather follicles, and a groove pattern left by the feather calami resting on the skin. Analysis of the preserved surfaces indicates a composition of calcium phosphate. This is the most complete and only articulated wing described for this species and represents the first record of a neornithine bird preserving three‐dimensional integument. Plumage density of the wing MLP 14‐I‐10‐22, estimated by counting the follicles under a stereoscopic microscope, is lower than that of the modern Emperor penguin.