description Spheniscus chilensis Overview
Spheniscus chilensis is an extinct banded penguin known from Late Pliocene marine deposits on the Mejillones Peninsula near Antofagasta in northern Chile. The species was described from disarticulated bones, including a complete left humerus, recovered at the Cuenca del Tiburón locality in the Caleta Herradura de Mejillones succession. Its anatomy is broadly comparable to living Spheniscus penguins such as the Humboldt and Magellanic penguins, while fossil differences support its recognition as a separate species, as reported in the original [species description](https://people.uncw.edu/emslies/documents/EmslieandGuerraCorrea2003.pdf).
help Spheniscus chilensis FAQ
Where was Spheniscus chilensis discovered?
Spheniscus chilensis is known from Late Pliocene marine deposits on the Mejillones Peninsula near Antofagasta in northern Chile. The fossils came from the Cuenca del Tiburón area.
What kind of penguin was Spheniscus chilensis?
It was an extinct banded penguin. The species is known from fossil bones, including a complete left humerus.
What fossils were found for Spheniscus chilensis?
The species was described from disarticulated bones, including a complete left humerus. These remains come from Late Pliocene marine deposits in northern Chile.
Is Spheniscus chilensis related to modern banded penguins?
Yes. Its placement in the genus Spheniscus connects it with modern banded penguins such as the Humboldt and Magellanic penguins. Spheniscus chilensis itself is extinct and known only from fossils.
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