Researchers Identified New Belemnite Species in Wyoming

A study published September 9, 2026, details a unique cephalopod fossil found in the Sundance Formation.

Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Geology

Researchers Identified New Belemnite Species in Wyoming

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Scientists recently identified a new belemnite species, Wyoteuthis linsterorum, based on two fossils discovered in Wyoming. The specimens date back approximately 160 million years and feature the thickest internal support structure ever recorded in the group.

Why it matters

The discovery challenges existing timelines for belemnite evolution, as the species belongs to a family previously thought to have vanished millions of years earlier. Researchers believe the creature's broad guard provided a distinct evolutionary advantage for hunting smaller cephalopods.

Computed tomography scanning allowed for a non-destructive analysis of the fossils. The species is estimated to have measured 60 centimeters in total length including its arms, based on the dimensions of its unique, robust guard.

The players

Wyoming Dinosaur Center

This museum serves as a repository for fossil specimens discovered throughout the region.

Cliff Linster

He was a fossil collector whose efforts contributed to the recovery of specimens.

The details

Researchers confirmed the new species by comparing two distinct specimens, with the second being donated to the Wyoming Dinosaur Center in 2019. The fossils were recovered from the Sundance Formation, providing critical data on cephalopod biodiversity from 160 million years ago.

The first specimen was discovered during the late 1990s.
A second specimen was donated to the Wyoming Dinosaur Center in 2019.
Fossil collector Cliff Linster died in June 2026.
The research paper on the species was published on September 9, 2026.

The Big Picture

This discovery shifts the understanding of belemnite evolution within the Sundance Formation geological research by proving that certain families persisted longer than previously hypothesized. The findings force a re-evaluation of cephalopod lineages during the Jurassic period.

While this discovery primarily impacts paleontological theory, the fossils are currently housed at the Wyoming Dinosaur Center for public and academic study. Visitors to the center can now view this unique specimen to better understand regional prehistoric biodiversity.

The takeaway

The identification of this species demonstrates how re-examining existing fossil collections can rewrite established biological histories. It underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in preserving specimens for future scientific analysis.