Minute and diverse in fossil sticky stuff: Tanytarsini (Diptera: Chironomidae) from early Eocene Indian Cambay amber

We here present a pioneering systematic review of fossil dipterans of the tribe Tanytarsini (family Chironomidae) discovered in Indian amber from Cambay. The specimens examined belong to five species: Gujaratomyia miripes,Stempellina stebneri sp. nov., Stempellinella pollex sp. nov., Tanytarsus forfex sp. nov. andTanytarsus ramus sp. nov., which are described. All species belong to the oldest known Tanytarsini and come from the Cambay shale formation in Tadkeshwar, dated to the early Eocene (~54 Mya). Displaying unusual characters/structures of diagnostic and phylogenetic importance, the specimens studied are discussed against the background of the evolution and systematics of the oldest fossil (Eocene) and extant representatives in the tribe. An updated checklist and key to the identification of genera and species of Tanytarsini from Eocene amber is also provided. The spectral characteristics and physical properties of Cambay amber are similar to those of glessite resins, which are discussed in detail in order to substantiate the identity of the amber and the origin of the inclusions studied.

New hypsodont tillodont (Mammalia, Tillodontia) from the early Eocene of India

A new tillodont,Anthraconyx hypsomylus, n. gen. n. sp., is described from the early Eocene Cambay Shale Formation at Vastan Lignite Mine, Gujarat, India.Anthraconyx hypsomylusis the smallest Eocene tillodont and is distinguished by having the most buccally hypsodont cheek teeth of any known esthonychine. The closest dental resemblances are to North AmericanEsthonyxandAzygonyxand EuropeanPlesiesthonyx, providing further evidence of affinities between the Vastan local fauna and Euroamerican vertebrate faunas.