Aenigmatorhynchus (meaning riddle beak) is an extinct genus of bird that lived in Middle Eocene of Germany. The type species is Aenigmatorhynchus rarus.
Discovery and Naming[]
The holotype (SMF-ME 11857) was discovered in 2022 in Messel Pit near Darmstadt, Germany. An additional specimen was found. However, since it is a part of private collection, little research can be done and published scientifically about it. In 2025, Gerald Mayr and Krister Smith described it as a new genus of bird. The generic name combines aenigma and rynchos, while the specific name points out that there is one skull of the species in a public collection.
Description[]
It consists of a complete skull. The beak is somewhat reminiscent of oystercatchers and silts, but the unique anatomical feature prevents it from being classified into these groups.
Classification[]
It is an bird genus of uncertain affinities, aka incertae sedis.
Gallery[]
.png "Aenigmatorhynchus (holotype skull).png (1.06 MB)")
.png "Aenigmatorhynchus (referred specimen).png (1.24 MB)")