Fossil fish stomachs: A microenvironment for exceptional preservation

Exceptionally preserved fossil fish from the Cretaceous of north east Brazil contain well preserved arthropods and small fish in the alimentary tract. The fish are preserved in early diagenetic concretions and often retain their original three dimensional morphology. A significant number of specimens have soft tissues preserved, including part of the alimentary tract, musculature and gills. In many specimens the stomach retains elements of the fishes’ last meal, including a variety of smaller fishes and arthropods. Although many are disarticulated, a significant number of specimens within the gut remain articulated. Many specimens display exceptional anatomical detail despite having been devoured by predators. Although arthropods can be found outside of the body cavity of the fish, such specimens are not usually so well preserved.