The Triassic Vertebrates Of The Aspiring Geopark Algarvensis

The paleontological research conducted during the last decade at the territory of Geopark Algarvensis, in Southern Portugal, has revealed the occurrence of rich fossil vertebrate bearing layers, in the Triassic of the Grés de Silves Formation. One of the most notable discoveries is the bonebed composed of numerous remains of temnospondyl amphibian Metoposaurus algarvensis,  a species known exclusively from the Geopark Algarvensis territory. The remaining recovered fauna includes the mandible of the first record of phytosaurs in the Iberian Peninsula and remains of the first placodonts reported in Portugal. While M. algarvensis and phytosaur remains were uncovered solely in one fossiliferous bed in the Penina site (Loulé municipality), the placodont remains are quite abundant occurring at multiple stratigraphic levels and localities spread throughout the Geopark territory. Based on the cranial and osteoderm material, an henodontid placodont has been identified. Due to the rarity of the fossil record of Henodontidae, known only from two other sites worldwide, the Algarve record is of exceptional scientific importance. The mentioned findings were instrumental in propelling the conception of the Geopark Algarvensis project, for their national and international relevance. The Triassic vertebrates have not only been a subject of scientific studies but also became a central topic of museological exhibitions, educational activities, merchandise and pieces of art, fostering a sense of identity within the local communities and serving as ambassadors of paleontology and geology in the aspiring Geopark Algarvensis.