description Piscophoca pacifica Overview
Piscophoca pacifica is an extinct true seal known from fossils found in the Pisco Formation of coastal Peru. It lived during the late Miocene and belonged to Phocidae, the family containing modern earless seals, making it relevant to research on the evolution and geographic history of pinnipeds in the southeastern Pacific. Material attributed to the species includes substantially preserved skeletal remains from marine deposits noted for their rich fossil vertebrate record.
help Piscophoca pacifica FAQ
What is Piscophoca pacifica?
Piscophoca pacifica is an extinct true seal known from fossils in Peru's Pisco Formation. It belonged to Phocidae, the family that includes modern earless seals.
When did Piscophoca pacifica live?
Piscophoca pacifica lived during the late Miocene. That places it millions of years before modern seal populations and makes it useful for studying earlier pinniped history.
Where were fossils of Piscophoca pacifica found?
Its fossils were found in the Pisco Formation of coastal Peru. This fossil-bearing formation preserves a rich record of marine life from the region's past.
Why is Piscophoca pacifica important to seal evolution?
The species helps researchers study the evolution and geographic spread of true seals along the ancient Pacific coast. Comparing it with modern Phocidae can reveal changes in body form, habitat, and distribution over time.
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