Cloutier, R.; Clement, A.M.; Lee, M.S.Y.; et al.
topology · range · morphology
The digit-like interpretation and sister-group position are analysis-dependent; the appendage retains fin rays.
Computed tomography of articulated Elpistostege specimen MHNM 06-2067 reveals four proximodistal radial rows, branched carpals and two distal rows interpreted as digits or putative digits, while lepidotrichia show that the appendage remained a fin.
claim:event:elpistostege-digit-bearing-finElpistostege is bounded here by articulated specimen MHNM 06-2067 from the Frasnian Escuminac Formation at Miguasha, Quebec, Canada; this named specimen context is not a global distribution or exact complete range.
claim:taxon:elpistostegeCloutier et al. place Elpistostege within the elpistostegalian, stem-tetrapodomorph region of their analysed topology; this package preserves that sampled placement without treating it as a fixed universal tree.
claim:taxon:elpistostege:taxonomyThe Elpistostege specimen used here is from the Miguasha fossil locality in Quebec, Canada; that named locality is not a global distribution or habitat-preference claim.
claim:taxon:elpistostege:biogeographyCT data from articulated Elpistostege specimen MHNM 06-2067 document four proximodistal radial rows, branched carpals and distal elements interpreted as digits or putative digits while lepidotrichia remain present.
claim:taxon:elpistostege:morphologyThe cited Elpistostege pectoral-fin study documents an aquatic fossil setting but does not establish diet, habitat preference or observed locomotor behaviour for the genus.
claim:taxon:elpistostege:ecology