Siberion | |
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Reconstruction ofSiberion lenaicus | |
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Genus: | Dzik 2011 |
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†Siberion lenaicus Dzik 2011 |
Siberion is anextinctgenus oflobopodian from theSinsk biota ofRussia. Its anatomy, including the proboscis-like organ projecting from the face and prominent grasping first pair of appendages, suggests that xenusians like this organism may have beenphylogenetically related toanomalocaridids, likeAnomalocaris.[3] Only two incomplete specimens are known, and the probability of finding more is low, as the Sinsk Algal Lens has been nearly destroyed by fossil poachers.
It is similar to other siberiids, however it is distinguished by the shape of its “tail” and body. The holotype preserves most of the body, however the appendages and head are incomplete. Its body is annulated, and while the head preserves large appendages and a radial mouth further details are unclear.Siberion has at least 12 pairs of legs which may have gill branches like other siberiids, however as mentioned previously they are incomplete. At the posterior end there is a bulbous structure, which is likely an extension of the body due to similar muscle impressions. The only internal structure seen is the digestive tract which resembles that ofdinocaridids, however it is unclear whether gut diverticulae are present.[3]