Teleostei indet.

Teleostei indet.

Higher-taxon identificationIdentified to: Class
Common name Indeterminate Teleost Fish
Fossil group Bony Fish

Summary

This record is used for remains that can be recognised as belonging to a teleost bony fish but cannot be identified more precisely. Isolated vertebrae, scales, fin rays, jaw fragments and delicate skull bones are common reasons for using a broad teleost identification.

Quick Identification

Look for: thin fish bones, small spool- or disc-shaped vertebrae, segmented fin rays, delicate jaw pieces with small teeth, or thin scales with visible growth lines. Use this record when the material is clearly teleost fish but lacks the characters needed for an order, family, genus or species.

Identification Features

  • Fin rays, where present, are typically slender and segmented and may branch toward their outer ends.
  • Vertebral centra are commonly short and spool- or disc-like, with distinct articular faces.
  • Cranial and opercular bones are often relatively thin and may carry fine ridges, grooves or sculpturing.
  • Scales, where preserved, are generally thin and may show concentric growth lines or radiating surface features.
  • Jaw fragments may be light in construction and can carry rows of small conical or pointed teeth.

Recorded Fossil Sites

Wrabness Member

Harwich Formation
Confirmed
Harwich
Last Reviewed
18 August 2026 Reviewed by Sam Harris