Basicranium.

The basicranium of specimen UMNH VP 27535 includes a complete basioccipital and basisphenoid, the caudoventral portions of the left and right pterygoids, and portions of the exoccipitals (Fig 2A, 2A', 2B and 2B'). The basicranium is smaller in size than that of CM 2956, suggesting a smaller overall cranial (and likely body) size. While the left pterygoid retains a suture between it and the left margins of the basioccipital and basisphenoid, the other cranial bones and much of the carapace have fused to the point that their sutures have been entirely obliterated (Fig 2A and 2B).

The basioccipital contacts the pterygoids posterolaterally. The ventral surface of the basioccipital contains a deep (2.7 mm), rounded depression in the midline (12.0 mm wide x 8.4 mm long), bounded laterally on either side by prominent tuberculum basioccipitale (Fig 2A and 2A'. The depression is more pronounced than in CM 2956 and MCZ 4072, with a distinctly demarcated margin. Several small foramina are present within the midsagittal region of the depression (Fig 2A). The tuberculum basioccipitale flare out laterally, and their tips are slightly indented. The basisphenoid is relatively short, and the ventral side is triangular in shape and flattened (Fig 2A). The basisphenoid-pterygoid suture is broad. A deep groove runs parallel to the left margin of the basisphenoid approximately 1 mm from its suture with the left pterygoid, and 6.2 mm in length. Ventral to the basisphenoid rostrum, the two pterygoids contact each other extensively (Fig 2A). The two foramina posterius canalis carotici interni are large (1.3 mm diameter), rounded, and contained entirely within the pterygoid with no basisphenoid contact (Fig 2A and 2A').

The condylus occipitalis in UMNH VP 27535 is crescent-shaped, and concave dorsally. Its neck is distinctly constricted at the base, and widens laterally as it extends caudally, creating a knob-like condylus (Fig 2B and 2B'). The pit on the condylus occipitalis attachment of the ligamentum apicis dentis [46–49] is shallow and subtle, as in CM 2956. The ventral margin of the foramen magnum is preserved, and is apparently mediolaterally wider than that of CM 2956; however, the right lateral margin and dorsal margin of the foramen are not present in UMNH VP 27535, so its diameter is not directly measureable. Based on the distance between the left lateral margin and the midline, we estimate its width at approximately 7.4 mm. Portions of both exoccipitals are present, but the left side is more complete and includes most of both the dorsolateral and ventral processes (Fig 2B and 2B').

Only the ventral process of the right exoccipital is preserved (Fig 2B and 2B'). The paired foramina nervi hypoglossi are present bilaterally, but are better preserved on the left side. The internal openings into the canalis hypoglossi from inside the foramen magnum are round and distinct, with the caudal-most foramen being slightly larger than the more cranial one (Fig 2B). The paired external foramina nervi hypoglossi on the lateral side of the left exoccipital are positioned closer to each other than they are on the right, with the larger caudal foramen occupying a slightly more dorsal position (caudal foramen: 0.9 mm; ventral foramen: 0.8 mm) than the smaller foramen. The dorsolateral portion of the right exoccipital is broken, exposing the more caudally positioned of the two canalis hypoglossi. The canal is 4.3 mm in length and 0.7 mm in diameter, and takes a slightly curved course through the exoccipital bone to open laterally. A small oval-shaped foramen is present, slightly caudal to the crista dorsalis basioccipitalis, just to the right of the midline (Fig 2B and 2B'). We interpret this to be a third, more medially positioned foramen nervi hypoglossi. This supernumerary foramen is not atypical in testudinoids [46–47]. The foramina jugulare posterius are preserved bilaterally, and are large and oval-shaped (Fig 2B). The left side is slightly distorted, but the right side appears to have maintained its origin dimensions (3.3 mm wide x 2.3 mm high). The foramina jugulare posterius face caudally, and sit in a depression between the tuberculum basioccipitale and the large, projecting condylus occipitalis, the latter of which creates a ridge overhanging the superior margin of the foramina jugulare posterius (Fig 2B and 2B').

The crista dorsalis basioccipitalis is subtle and almost insignificant, leading cranially to a small, circular basis tuberculi basalis (0.6 mm) (Fig 2B and 2B'). A small right foramen nervi abducentis (0.5 mm diameter) is present approximately halfway up the lateral side of the caudal margin of the dorsum sellae (Fig 2B). The caudal surface of the dorsum sellae ascends gradually from the horizontal portion of the basisphenoid, leading up to a flattened peak (Fig 2B and 2B'). Its anterior surface is flat and declines steeply, almost directly vertically with minimal overhang. The sella turcica is round, approximately 4.5 mm in diameter and 2 mm deep. The paired foramina anterius canalis carotici interni are rounded and approximately 0.8 mm in diameter (Fig 2B and 2B'). The rostrum basisphenoidale project anteriorly 5.4 mm beyond the sella turcica (Fig 2B and 2B'). The right side is partially weathered, revealing part of the canalis caroticus lateralis coursing within the rostrum. The large canali nervi vidiani are open dorsally, exposing portions of the vidian canals bilaterally (Fig 2B and 2B'). There is a small, medially oriented foramen in the medial wall of each canal, which likely represents the opening of a transverse communication between the vidian canal and the canalis caroticus lateralis, as has been described in Baena arenosa (YPM-VP 3941) and Chisternon undatum (YPM-VP 3930) basicrania [48].

Otic region.

The left and right quadrates are in good condition, and a portion of the right squamosal is present (Fig 2C and 2D). They are broad, thick bones, and from a posterior view, they appear “C-shaped” as in other baenids [48] (Fig 2D). The contribution of the quadrate to the fossa temporalis superior suggests a minimal degree of temporal emargination, comparable to that of other B. arenosa specimens. The processus trochlearis oticum of UMNH VP 27535 is wide but unpronounced, consisting primarily of a subtle, sloping projection into the temporal fossa (Fig 2D). This process is generally unremarkable in baenids [8]. In life, this process serves as the attachment point for the tendons of the lower jaw adductor muscles [46], which were presumably less developed in baenids than most other cryptodires.

The processus articularis is quite short, noticeably less projecting than in CM 2956. The articular surface of the condylus mandibularis is shallow (1.5 mm), and its medial and lateral margins do not extend far ventrally (Fig 2D). In most Testudines, this joint surface consists of two distinct articular facets separated by a groove [46]. However, in UMNH VP 27535 no facets are visible and the entire articular surface appears worn (Fig 2D). It bears several nutrient foramina, and roughening on the surface, which may indicate osteoarthritic changes in the jaw joint or taphonomic alterations. A groove runs along the medial side of the processus articularis, and onto the posterior side, terminating in a small pit. This feature occurs bilaterally in UMNH VP 27535, and is also observed on MCZ 4072, although the groove on the latter is less pronounced. The foramen chorda tympani inferius is slightly ovate. The foramen chorda tympani superius is not preserved on either side.

The ventral margin of the otic capsule is preserved, and suggests a broad, rounded opening leading into the cavum tympani (Fig 2D). The projection below the external otic opening is elongated and triangular. Medial to the otic margin, the cavum tympani dips slightly ventrally, and then opens up into an expanded, smooth-walled cavity (Fig 2D). The dorsal margin of the left incisura columellae auris is preserved, indicating a broad, rounded foramen. It is open caudally, as described in other baenids [6]. Just distal to the incisura columellae auris, the cavum acustico-jugulare expands medially. The canalis cavernosus and aditus canalis stapedio-temporalis diverge further medially. The canalis cavernosus consists of a deep, straight furrow, demarcated by sharp margins. The broad aditus canalis stapedio-temporalis constricts to an extremely round canalis stapedio-temporalis. The medial third of the foramen stapedio-temporale is preserved, and suggests a circular shape of the foramen. The lateral margin of this foramen is not preserved.

The suture for articulation with the squamosal is elliptical, and its surface is extremely smooth with the appearance of a facet surface (Fig 2D). The antrum postoticum is deep and its surface smooth. The suture with the posterior portion of the pterygoid is roughly rectangular, and appears to lack the typical medial dorso-ventral expansion that gives the quadrate-pterygoid suture its triangular shape in many cryptodires [46]. The processus epipterygoideus is broad and squat, and does not extend considerably beyond the medial boundary of the pterygoid suture. The posterolateral portion of the right squamosal is present, including the lateral margin of the antrum postoticum. Its ventral surface contains the lateral part of a smooth and rather shallow fossa for attachment of the M. depressor mandibulae [50–53], while its external surface is extremely crenulated (Fig 2D). Posteriorly, it appears to taper to a significant projection, comparable to that of CM 2956.

Neurocranium.

Specimen UMNH VP 27535 contains a moderately-sized (25 mm long x 27 mm wide) midline neurocranial fragment, which includes most of the left and right frontal bones, the anterolateral portion of the right parietal, a small section of the anterior-most part of the left parietal, and the left nasal (Fig 2E and 2E'). It incorporates small portions of the left and right orbital margins, as well as the left side of the superior margin of the nasal aperture. Several other fragmentary, relatively undiagnostic cranial vault fragments are also present.

The dorsal skull roof of UMNH VP 27535 is thick (3.6 mm at the midline of the parietals), as Joyce and Lyson [6] described as characterizing Baena arenosa. The frontal bones are broad and flat, and roughly rectangular in shape with a subtly convex shape (Fig 2E and 2E'). They contact the nasals anteriorly, parietals posteriorly, and each other medially. The adjacent sections of maxilla, prefrontal, and postorbital are absent, so it cannot be determined whether the frontals contact these bones in this specimen. The left frontal includes a moderately-sized suture for articulation with the maxilla, which is straight and transverse (Fig 2E). Gaffney [48] suggested that a well-developed fronto-maxillary contact is a synapomorphy of the Baenodda clade. The right frontal is more complete than the left, and contains more of the dorsal margin of the fossa orbitalis. While it is not possible to estimate the shape of the entire orbit, the contour of the dorsal margin suggests a rather circular orbit. In the left frontal, only 4 mm of the orbital margin immediately posterior to the fronto-nasal suture is preserved. Based on these limited sections, the orbits appear to be facing relatively laterally, a condition found in most baenid genera, except Arvinachelys, Cedrobaena, Eubaena, Gamerobaena, and Palatobaena, in which the orbits face dorsally [5, 36, 49]. A projecting posterolateral process is visible on the right side.

The dorsal surface of the parietals is broad and quite flat (Fig 2E and 2E'). The suture between the left and right parietals is fused but still visible, as is the fronto-parietal suture on either side, the latter of which is relatively straight. The parietals appear relatively large; however, the degree of their posterolateral extension cannot be determined due to breakage. A second isolated midline neurocranial fragment includes the posteriormost portions of the left and right parietals (Fig 2E and 2E'). The dorsal surface of this fragment is extremely smooth, with no indication of a crista supraoccipitalis that extends onto the parietals (Fig 2E and 2E'). This crest, when present, is typically small in baenids [46]. The suture for articulation with the supraoccipital is straight and short (4.5 mm) (Fig 2E). On the right side, the original posterolateral border of the parietal is retained, and is oriented at approximately 110° angle to the parieto-supraoccipital suture, suggesting that the posterior dorsal vault tapers to a midline projection. While the entire parietal bone is not present on either side, the combined length of the parietal fragments (28.5 mm) is still greater than twice as long as the frontal bones (12.3 mm), indicating that the parietals are substantially longer than the frontals in this specimen.

The ventral surface of the frontals consists of a single median sulcus olfactorius (Fig 2E and 2E'), which houses the olfactory nerve (CN I) [46]. Further caudally, the ventral portions of the parietals compose the anterior part of the cavum cranii. A faint transverse line separates the cavum cranii from the sulcus olfactorius. The vertical plate of the parietals separates the orbits from the cavum cranii (Fig 2E and 2E'). The dorsal part of the internal surface of the orbital margin suggests a large, circular orbit (Fig 2E). A round foramen supraorbitale is present on the right side (Fig 2E and 2E'). A small portion of the processus parietalis inferioris is present on the right, demarcating the anterior margin of the right fossa temporalis (Fig 2E and 2E'). The left frontal is fused with the vertical plate of the prefrontal, a small fragment of which is present in this specimen.

Facial skeleton.

Of the facial skeleton, the anteromedial aspect of the right maxilla, two fragments of the left maxilla, and portions of the nasal bones are present in UMNH VP 27535 (Fig 2F). The maxilla includes the lateral margin of the aperture narium externa, and small sections of the anteroventral margin of the orbit, horizontal plate, and triturating surface. A single dorsal suture, apparently for articulation with the right frontal is also present, and is quite straight, horizontally oriented, and smooth. There is no discernible separate suture for articulation with the nasal.

Due to absence of the dorsal margin of the maxilla, the contribution of this bone to the anteroventral orbital margin is quite small (approximately 6 mm), but rounded. The internal surface of this contribution is recessed with a deep furrow (Fig 2F). The aperture narium externa appears to be quite rounded laterally (Fig 2F), as in CM2956 and MCZ 4072. The internal wall of the fossa nasalis contains a sloping fossa. Posterior to the fossa, the foramen alveolare superius is present, and is large and rounded as in CM 2956.

The horizontal portion of the maxilla attaches perpendicularly to the vertical plate. While only the lateral-most portion of the processus palatinis is preserved, it is still possible to estimate its lateral thickness at approximately 1.5 mm. Ventral to the processus palatinis, a series of numerous, tiny nutrient foramina populate the internal surface of the alveolar process. The alveolar process descends to terminate in a relatively thin and jagged triturating surface (Fig 2F). The labial ridge is noticeably thinner and its margin less even than in MCZ 4072 and CM 2956. The processus alveolus descends almost immediately vertically, without any medial curvature or lipping, such as in CM 2956 and MCZ 4072. It is possible that some damage has occurred to the margin of the triturating surface in this specimen, causing it to truncate prematurely. The lingual ridge is not preserved.

On the left side, the external surface of the maxilla is rugose, likely indicating the attachment of the horny rhamphotheca, and becomes increasingly crenulated ventrally (Fig 2F). A portion of the triturating surface is preserved. The labial ridge descends steeply; however, its dorsal-most projection is missing, so its height cannot be assessed. A shallow trough between the ridges is present (Fig 2F), as described in B. arenosa and C. undatum [48]. However, the labial ridge itself is not preserved. An additional section of crenulated facial bone, which may represent a section of jugal, is present and includes a portion of the orbital margin. The orbit appears to be comparatively small as in other B. arenosa specimens [2, 48], although its precise dimensions are not directly measurable. The contribution to the orbital margin by the jugal is quite extensive, a trait which Hay [8] described as characteristic of B. arenosa and C. undatum.

The nasals are small, and contact the frontal posteriorly and their antimere medially. As is typical in Baena, the midsagittal suture between the two nasals is completely obliterated. An apparent, straight suture is visible between the nasal and frontal on the left side, suggesting that these elements are separate bones in this specimen. The superior margin of the aperture narium externa is preserved on the left side, and it angles slightly dorsally from the midline creating a subtle “heart-shaped” appearance of the superior part of the aperture, similar but less pronounced than that of CM 2956. The anteriormost edge of the nasals are thickened and rugose with a midline depression. They converge anteriorly into a small midline projection, similar to the juvenile Baena arenosa specimen MCZ 4072. On the ventral surface of the nasals within the fossa nasalis, a delicate median ridge separates two parasagittal fossae, which Gaffney [46] suggested to be an extension of the sulcus olfactorius, and through which the olfactory bulbs of CN I course. A small round foramen is immediately posterior to the termination of the median ridge.

Lower jaw.

Several fragments of lower jaw elements are also present in specimen UMNH VP 27535, including portions of the articular, coronoid, and prearticular (Fig 2G). The superior tip of the left coronoid is present. It includes a well-developed processus coronoideus, which is long and flattened (Fig 2G). Its lateral surface preserves a pronounced ridge, likely for the attachment of M. adductor mandibulae externus [46], and large rounded foramen dentofaciale majus [50, 52]. The anterolateral margin of the fossa meckelii is present, but it is not possible to estimate the size of the fossa.

Most of the left articular is present (Fig 2G). The posterior aspect is dominated by a large contribution to the area articularis mandibularis for articulation with the condylus mandibularis on the quadrate. The fossa is shallow and ovoid. The posterior process for attachment of the M. depressor mandibulae [46] is moderately sized and hooks slightly medially (Fig 2G). Gaffney [54] noted that this process is small in Baena, Chisternon, and Plesiobaena. Despite its small size in UMNH VP 27535, this process contains prominent ridges on either side. The foramen posterius chorda tympani is almost imperceptible. Anterior to the fossa, the articular widens into a broad, vertically oriented plate. A prominent lateral ridge connects the vertical plate to the posterior projection, creating a deep lateral fossa. A large foramen is also present on the medial surface. A fragment of right prearticular contains the foramen intermandibularis caudalis (Fig 2G). The foramen is not entirely surrounded by bone, such that it is open postero-dorsally (1.3 mm tall). In life, this foramen transmits a branch of the mandibular nerve (CN V₃) [46]. It is typically located on the suture between the prearticular and angular; however, in UMNH VP 27535, there is no evidence of a suture, and the foramen appears to be positioned more dorsally than is typical.

Limb elements.

Specimen UMNH VP 27535 contains a few isolated postcranial fragments (Fig 3A–3H). The distal portion of a scapular blade is present, suggesting an elongate, rod-like scapula (Fig 3E; Table 2). The caudal surface is round and smooth, while the rostral surface is slightly flattened. A prominent ridge courses obliquely along the rostral surface, indicating a well-developed levator scapulae-rhomboid complex (Fig 3E). The distal end expands slightly into a small knob-like termination with roughened depressions.

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Table 2. Dimensions of postcranial bone elements in Baena specimen UMNH VP 27535.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0180574.t002

Two fragments of cervical vertebrae of unknown position are present, a large, isolated centrum and a smaller centrum with a transverse process and prezygopophysis (Fig 3A and 3B; Table 2). On the large centrum, the depression on the articular surface is deeply concave, suggesting a cervical spine that articulated intimately (Fig 3A). It is an asymmetrical oval shape, mediolaterally wider than it is dorsoventrally long, resembling the anterior part of C8 in C. undatum specimen AMNH 5904 [8]. The proximal bases of the pedicles are widely spread, signifying a broad vertebral canal. The smaller centrum is more triangular in shape and appears convex, suggesting that UMNH VP 27535 may be partly opisthocoelous (Fig 3B). The transverse process is robust, with rugose muscle attachment markings. It angles faintly posteriorly from the centrum, and then curves slightly postero-ventrally at its lateral-most tip. The vertebral foramen is larger in this element, and its ventral surface is quite flattened and smooth. The prezygopophysis is small, and its articular facet saddle-shaped. The bases of ventral keels are present on both centra, and moderately developed (Fig 3A and 3B); however, they are worn, and it is not possible to definitively assess their length.

Portions of two cervical ribs are present, one mostly complete rib and one isolated medial end (Fig 3C and 3D). Cervical ribs in UMNH VP 27535 are short, broad, and curved (Fig 3C and 3D). The cranial surface is rounded, while the caudal surface is flattened, and slightly concave. The proximal end is dominated by three, large flattened facets: one oriented medially, one posteriorly, and one dorsally. The articular facet on the head for attachment to the vertebral centrum is oval and concave. The tubercle of the rib consists of a large, teardrop-shaped facet, tapering distally, for articulation with the transverse process (Fig 3C and 3D). In the complete cervical rib (Fig 3C), the body does not taper distally; rather, the distal end widens out from the body of the rib. The distal end contains two small, ventrally positioned tubercles. Both cervical ribs in UMNH VP 27535 derive from the left side of the body, indicating the presence of cervical ribs at multiple vertebral levels, not just the atlas.

There are also a few undiagnostic remnants of long bone diaphyses associated with this specimen (Fig 3F). A small number of isolated shell fragments are also present, and are described in detail below in conjunction with the other Baena arenosa shell specimens.

Shells.

The new Baena arenosa shell material consists of two reasonably complete shells, UMNH VP 27604 and UMNH VP 27191 (Figs 4 and 5), as well as several more fragmentary adult and subadult specimens (Figs 6–12). Specimen UMNH VP 27604 is the most complete baenid shell specimen recovered by our team from the Uinta Formation thus far (Fig 4A and 4B). Only the anterior and posterior tips of the carapace, as well as the left lateral margin, are missing, and the plastron is also essentially complete. Specimen UMNH VP 27191 is a large adult B. arenosa specimen, including much of the plastron and carapace (Fig 5A–5D). The fusion between bony elements is extensive, such that very few sutures remain visible. The bone of both the plastron and carapace is flatter and thinner than many of the other specimens described here. The dorsal surface of the plastron also contains fewer rugosities and visible muscle attachment markings (Fig 5D). Specimen UMNH VP 27653 is an anterior left portion of a carapace (Fig 6A and 6B). While it is incomplete, the sulci are prominent, and it retains several taxonomically relevant characters. UMNH VP 27539 is a large section of an adult anterior carapace, a fused portion of the anterior plastron, and numerous associated peripheral and bridge fragments (Fig 6C and 6D). Specimen UMNH VP 27543 comprises an anterior plastral lobe, with complete left and right epiplastra, partial entoplastron, and the anterior parts of the hyoplastra, as well as several accompanying nondescript shell fragments. UMNH VP 27545 consists primarily of an extremely weathered plastron, as well as a few carapace fragments. Portions of the left and right hyoplastra, mesoplastra, hypoplastra, and xiphiplastra are present. The anterior margin of the plastron is missing, such that only the posterior parts of the entoplastron and epiplastra are present. Two consecutive partial neurals of unknown position and the medial portions of the adjacent left costals are present. UMNH VP 27541 is a partial weathered carapace and numerous isolated plastral and carapace fragments (Fig 7). It includes fused neurals I-IV, medial portions of costals I-IV, and the anterior margin of the carapace including the nuchal, and first few peripherals on either side. Its dorsal surface is extremely worn such that many of the sulci are not visible. Specimen UMNH VP 27192 is a posterior plastral lobe and posterior carapace (Fig 8A and 8B). Specimen UMNH VP 27542 is a reasonably complete plastron, and a small number of associated float fragments, including several peripherals and bridge elements (Fig 8C). Specimen UMNH VP 27085 consists of a small plastron, missing the posterior region and some of the lateral margins, and a small section of fused neurals (Fig 9A and 9B). The carapace includes a united midline section with fused neurals IV-VII and the associated medial portions of costals IV-VIII, and the pygal/suprapygal region. UMNH VP 27538 includes an abraded, but mostly complete plastron. The lateral aspects of the hyoplastron and hypoplastron and posterolateral portion of the right xiphiplastron are missing, but the remainder of the plastron is present. Specimen UMNH VP 27338 is a weathered partial plastron, missing the posterior and lateral edges. The shell remnants of specimen UMNH VP 27535 (associated with the cranium described above) are unfortunately fragmentary and incomplete (Fig 3G and 3H). On the right side, most of the epiplastron, part of the entoplastron, and the anterior portion of the hyoplastron are present. Only the anteromedial portion of the left epiplastron is present. A fused neural row consisting of three neural elements is present, in addition to two more isolated neural fragments. A partial costal, likely the medial part of costal VIII, is present. It preserves a section of the medial margin of the 4^th pleural scale, which appears semicircular. Specimen UMNH VP 27546 includes an anterior plastral lobe, a portion of hypoplastron, and a small midline carapace fragment (Fig 10A–10D).

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Fig 4. Baena arenosa carapace specimen from the Uinta Basin, UMNH VP 27604.

(A) Right lateral view of the carapace of UMNH VP 27604. (B) Superior view of the carapace of UMNH VP 27604. Note the original curvature of the dome of UMNH VP 27604, one of the most complete B. arenosa carapace specimens from the Uinta Basin. Abbreviations: Pl = pleural scale; Ve = vertebral scale.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0180574.g004

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Fig 5. Carapace and plastron of Uintan Baena arenosa specimen UMNH VP 27191.

(A-A') Dorsal view of carapace. (B) Ventral view of carapace. (B') Increased magnification of vertebral elements affixed to internal surface of carapace. (C-C') Ventral view of plastron. (D) Dorsal view of plastron. Red arrows indicate puncture pits consistent with carnivore bite marks. Abbreviations: Ab = abdominal scale; An = anal scale; Ce = cervical scale; Eg = extragular scale; Fe = femoral scale; FeA = femoral-anal sulcus; Gs = gular scale; Hu = humeral scale; HEg = humeral-extragular sulcus; Ma = marginal scale; Pe = pectoral scale; Pl = pleural scale; Ve = vertebral scale.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0180574.g005

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Fig 6. Two anterior carapace specimens of Uintan Baena arenosa.

(A) Dorsal view of UMNH VP 27653 carapace. (B) Ventral view of UMNH VP 27653 carapace. (C) Anterior carapace of UMNH VP 27539 (dorsal view). (D) Mid-carapace section of UMNH VP 27539 with pitting (dorsal view). Red arrow indicates puncture pit consistent with carnivore tooth mark.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0180574.g006

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Fig 7. Two Uintan Baena arenosa carapace specimens.

(A) Dorsal view of UMNH VP 27541 carapace. (B) Ventral view of UCMP 179495 carapace.

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Fig 8. Posterior carapace and plastron sections from Uintan Baena arenosa specimen UMNH VP 27192.

(A) External view of plastron and carapace. (B) Internal view of plastron and carapace.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0180574.g008

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Fig 9. Two Baena arenosa plastral specimens from the Uinta Basin, UMNH VP 27085 and UMNH VP 27542.

(A) Ventral view of the plastron of UMNH VP 27085. (B) Dorsal surface of midline carapace fragment from UMNH VP 27085. (C) Dorsal view of UMNH VP 27542 plastron.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0180574.g009

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Fig 10. Carapace and plastron fragments of Uintan Baena arenosa specimen UMNH VP 27546.

(A) Dorsal view of carapace fragments. (B) Ventral view of carapace fragments. (C) Ventral view of plastron. (D) Dorsal view of plastron. Red arrow indicates puncture pit consistent with carnivore tooth mark. Note that this specimen was recovered from the Uinta Formation/Duchesne River Formation contact, making it the youngest baenid specimen described in the present study.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0180574.g010

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Fig 11. Carapace and plastron fragments of Uintan subadult Baena arenosa specimens UMNH VP 27540 and UCMP 179520.

(A) Dorsal view of carapace of UMNH VP 27540. (B) Ventral view of carapace of UMNH VP 27540. (C) Ventral view of plastron of UMNH VP 27540. (D) Dorsal view of plastron of UMNH VP 27540. (E) Ventral view of UCMP 179520 plastral fragments. (F) Ventral view of UCMP 179520 carapace. Red arrows indicate puncture pits consistent with carnivore bite marks.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0180574.g011

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Fig 12. Carapace and plastron fragments of Uintan subadult Baena arenosa specimen UMNH VP 27537.

(A) Dorsal view of carapace (left) and plastron (right). (B) Ventral view of carapace (left) and plastron (right). (C) Isolated bridge and peripheral elements with evidence of predation. Red arrows indicate puncture pits consistent with carnivore tooth marks.

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Shell remains from five new subadult Baena arenosa specimens were also discovered. All specimens are diagnosed as subadults due to the presence of sutures and lack of fusion among the individual carapace and plastral elements, as well as their small size. Specimen UCMP 179495 is a larger subadult, consisting of partially fused bones of the midline carapace, including the nuchal, peripherals I-II on either side, neurals I-VI, and the medial portions of the adjacent costals (Fig 7B). Specimen UMNH VP 27540 comprises most of the posterior 2/3 of the plastron, and a large midline portion of the carapace, including a neural row of complete neurals I-V, and the proximal portions of the adjacent costals I-V on both sides, plus part of the right costal VI (Fig 11A–11D). UCMP 179520 includes a section of midline carapace, including the nuchal, neurals I-V and VII, and the medial sections of several contiguous costals, along with some plastral fragments including incomplete portions of both hyoplastra, mesoplastra, and hypoplastra (Fig 11E and 11F). Specimen UMNH VP 27537 includes a partial plastron, the medial portion of the carapace, including neurals I-VI and the medial parts of costals I-VI on both sides, and several isolated bridge and peripheral elements (Fig 12A–12C). Specimen UMNH VP 27547 consists of a small section of right carapace, with three adjacent partial neurals and the proximal portions of the associated costals. UCMP 179496 is a small juvenile consisting of an anterior midline carapace section, including the nuchal, neurals I-III, and costals I, III, and IV on both sides. A large plastral section is also present, including both mesoplastra, left hyoplastron, right hypoplastron and partial right xiphiplastron.

UMNH VP 27604 is an adult Baena arenosa specimen, as indicated by complete fusion of the carapacial sutures and size (Fig 4). The midline length of the carapace is approximately 380 mm, which falls within the range of previously described Uintan B. arenosa specimens (320–390 mm) and below adult C. undatum specimens (490–520 mm) [26]. UMNH VP 27191 measures 330 mm in midline plastron length, and an estimated midline carapace length of 370 mm (the anterior edge is slightly damaged) (Fig 5). In four specimens, sufficient carapace is preserved to assess the degree of doming. Three (UMNH VP 27191, UMNH VP 27192, UCMP 179283) are moderately domed (Figs 4A and 7A), as in other baenids [6]. However, in the well-preserved UMNH VP 27604, the doming of the carapace is much more pronounced (Fig 4A). The bone of the carapace is generally moderate in its thickness, and noticeably thinner than the plastral bone. However, in one specimen, UMNH VP 27546, the carapace is demonstrably thicker, up to 27 mm (Fig 10). In adult specimens, the carapace lacks a defined mid-dorsal ridge (e.g., Figs 4B, 5A, 6 and 7A). However, in the smaller Baena subadults, UMNH VP 27540, UCMP 179520, and UMNH VP 27547, a triple ridge is present, with one midline crest and two parasagittal lines (Fig 11). This condition is present but less pronounced in the larger Baena subadults, UMNH VP 27537 and UCMP 179495 (Figs 7B and 11A). A single midsagittal suprapygal element is present, and it divides the pygal in two (Fig 8), as has been described in Baena arenosa [55]. The divided pygal and suprapygal surround a pronounced midline caudal notch (Fig 8).

A single large nuchal precedes the first neural, with no evidence of a preneural (Figs 5, 6 and 11). The axillary and inguinal buttresses both reach the costals (Figs 5B and 9), as has been described in other baenids [6]. In the subadult carapaces (UMNH VP 27537, UMNH VP 27540, UMNH VP 27547), the shapes of the unfused neural bones are discernable (Figs 7B, 11 and 12). The neurals vary in shape from oval (neural I) to elongated (neurals II-IV) to roughly rectangular (neurals V-VI). The neurals are generally elongated and wider anteriorly than they are posteriorly (e.g., coffin-shaped), with two sharp parasagittal anterior projections in neurals II-V (Figs 7B and 11 and 12). This morphology creates an intimate articulation between consecutive neurals and with the contiguous costals. Neural I is rounded anteriorly and lacks any anterior parasagittal projections, giving it a more oval shape than neurals II-V. The medial ends of the costals are slightly hooked caudally, creating a tight, wedge-shaped articulation among adjacent costals.

Several Uintan B. arenosa specimens possess multiple subdivided cervical scales, including UMNH VP 27191, UFH 11739, UCMP 179520, and UCMP 179283 (Figs 5 and 11), a trait not attributed to this species by Joyce and Lyson [6]. However, UMNH VP 27539 displays the expected pattern of a single cervical scale (Fig 7C), suggesting that B. arenosa is polymorphic for this trait. There is no evidence of a prepleural scale, like that of C. undatum (Figs 4, 5 and 12; Joyce & Lyson, 2015). There is no evidence of a prepleural scale, the absence of which differentiates Baena from other eubaenines [6].

Vertebral I is hexagonal, with a posterior margin that is wider than its anterior margin. Vertebral scales II and III are markedly longer than they are wide, as in other Eubaenines [2, 6], while vertebral IV is only marginally longer than it is wide (Figs 4, 5 and 11). The anterior margin of vertebral V is omega-shaped in the midline, creating an anterior indentation in the posterior margin of vertebral IV (Figs 4 and 8). The fifth vertebral scale extends posteriorly to contribute to the margin of the carapace, as in other baenodds [4, 6]. In the subadult UMNH VP 27537, the anterior sulci of vertebrals II-IV all project to a point at the midline, creating a triangular anterior margin (Fig 12A). The pleural scales are also rather square-shaped. A discontinuous section of right peripherals and the lateral portion of a posterior bridge element are present in one adult specimen (UMNH VP 27192), demonstrating a square-shaped marginal scale (Fig 8). In UMNH VP 27604, the pleural-marginal sulci are deep and pronounced, and the marginals are tall and almost vertically oriented due to the height of the dome-shaped carapace (Fig 4A).

In UMNH VP 27191, vertebrals II-IV are rectangular (longer than wide) (Fig 5A and 5A'), as in other Eubaenines [2, 6]. Vertebral V is incomplete posteriorly, so it is not possible to determine whether it contributes to the posterior margin of the shell. The cervical scale is subdivided into several small cervicals (Fig 5A), as illustrated by Gaffney [2]. Prepleural scales, which are typically present in C. undatum and absent in B. arenosa [6], are absent in UMNH VP 27191 (Fig 5A).

The shells of subadult B. arenosa specimens UMNH VP 27537 and UMNH VP 27540 demonstrate evidence of apparent predation (Figs 11 and 12). Several deep, round puncture pits are visible on the bridge, plastron, and carapace of UMNH VP 27537. The most prominent pits are those on the bridge elements, which pass completely through the bone in some cases (Fig 12). The ventral surface of the plastron and dorsal carapace of UMNH VP 27540 are also perforated in several locations by conspicuous puncture pits (Fig 11).

Attached to the caudo-ventral surface of the carapace in UNMH VP 27191, are the articulated centra of four caudally positioned vertebrae: Dorsal vertebrae 8–10 (D8-10) and Sacral vertebra 1 (S1) (Fig 5B and 5B'). The vertebral centra of the final three dorsal (thoracic) vertebrae are broad and cylindrical (Fig 5B'). The proximal portions of the articulated rib heads are present along the left side of the vertebral series. The centrum of S1 is wider than the centra of the dorsal vertebrae, and the lateral extension is cylindrical and projects caudolaterally from the body on the right side (Fig 5B').

The new plastral specimens of Uintan Baena arenosa expand the range of known variation within the species, while still retaining the primary characteristics expected within the Baenidae (Figs 5–13). For the measurable adult B. arenosa specimens, the maximum plastron length ranges from 330–380 mm in length, placing them securely within the published range for Baena arenosa (under 400 mm) [26], and below that of known adult C. undatum specimens (420–480 mm) [26]. Even in some of the smaller adult specimens (e.g., UMNH VP 27085), the plastral elements are typically completely fused, providing further support that these specimens are attributable to B. arenosa, because the sympatric C. undatum often retains sutures into adulthood [26].

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Fig 13.

Schematic representations of morphological traits in newly described Uintan Baena arenosa (A-B) and Chisternon undatum (C-D) specimens. (A) Ventral plastron of Uintan B. arenosa. (B) Dorsal carapace of Uintan B. arenosa. (C) Ventral plastron of Uintan C. undatum. (D) Dorsal carapace of Uintan C. undatum. Differences from Gaffney (1979) [46] indicated in red. Uintan baenid specimens generally differ from previously described B. arenosa and C. undatum morphology in having: sigmoidal humeral-extragular sulci, multiple cervical scales, and small subtriangular gular scales. Abbreviations: Ab = Abdominal scale; An = Anal scale; Ce = Cervical scale; co = costal; Eg = Extragular scale; epi = epiplastron; ent = entoplastron; Fe = Femoral scale; FeA = Femoral-Anal sulcus; Gs = Gular scale; HEg = Humeral-Extragular sulcus; Hu = Humeral scale; hyo = hyoplastron; hyp = hypoplastron; mes = mesoplastron; ne = neural; nu = nuchal; Pe = Pectoral scale; per = peripheral; Pl = Pleural scale; pn = preneural; Pp = Prepleural scale; py = pygal; spy = suprapygal; Ve = Vertebral scale; xi = xiphiplastron. Following Gaffney (1979) [46], abbreviations for scales are capitalized, while those for bony elements are indicated with lowercase.

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The sulci are prominent, and are visible exclusively on the ventral surface of the plastron, indicating that the plastral scales did not overlap to the dorsal surface, as in other Baenids [6, 55]. The anterior plastral lobes are relatively narrow, but generally rounded, in contrast to the truncated, subtriangular shape typically observed in C. undatum [6, 55]. In one specimen (UMNH VP 27538), the epiplastra are indented anterolaterally, causing the anterior margin of the plastron to appear knob-shaped. There is no evidence of epiplastral processes. In the subadults UMNH VP 27537, UCMP 179520, UCMP 179496, and UMNH VP 27540, patent sutures demonstrate the shapes of the individual plastral bones (Figs 11 and 12). In all subadults, the mesoplastra contact each other broadly at the midline, as is characteristic of B. arenosa [6, 56].

The gular scales are small, and for the most part, roughly ovoid. In some specimens (e.g., UMNH VP 27543), together the left and right gular scales form a semicircle. The extragular scales are substantially larger than the gular scales, and contact each other broadly in the midline posterior to the gular scales (Fig 5C), as is typical of the Baenodda clade [4, 6]. The humeral-extragular sulcus is distinctly sigmoidal in many specimens (i.e., UMNH VP 27539, UMNH VP 27541, UMNH VP 27543, UCMP 179283; Figs 4 and 6), a trait which has been described in other eubaenines but not typically thought to characterize the Uintan baenids, Baena or Chisternon [6]. In some specimens (i.e., UMNH VP 27338, UMNH VP 27535, UMNH VP 27538, UMNH VP 27542; Fig 13), the sigmoidal shape is definitively present, but more gradually sloping. Only one specimen displays a non-sigmoidal shape: UMNH VP 27085 has a straighter, subtle inverted omega shaped humeral-extragular sulcus thought to characterize B. arenosa (Fig 9A) [6].

The posterior plastron is generally broad in comparison to the narrow anterior lobe. The hypoplastra are dorsoventrally thickened at the midline. The posterior buttresses are robust, although they are flattened in the juvenile UMNH VP 27537 (Fig 12). The posterior margins of the xiphiplastra curve slightly anteriorly at the midline, creating a very subtle caudal notch (UMNH VP 27192, UMNH VP 27191, UMNH VP 27542, UCMP 179283; Figs 4 and 7A). In most specimens, the femoral-anal sulcus is omega-shaped, and crosses the xiphiplastron-hypoplastron suture (Fig 5C), as in other baenodds [4, 6]. In one specimen (UMNH VP 27191), the femoral-anal sulcus appears quite straight compared to other Uintan baenids, and does not appear to extend onto the hypoplastron (Fig 5C); however, the sutures are obliterated in this specimen, so the hypoplastral-xiphiplastral boundary can only be estimated.

CHISTERNON UNDATUM Leidy, 1873 [57]

Referred specimens: The new Chisternon undatum material (Figs 14–16) includes one very complete shell (UMNH VP 27554), and four incomplete specimens, including one juvenile (UMNH VP 27544). Specimen UMNH VP 27554 consists of a sizeable, almost complete plastron and carapace in excellent condition, such that many regions and features not preserved in other Uintan specimens are observable (Fig 14A–14D). The plastron of this specimen is in exceptional condition, with only portions of the right lateral margin missing, plus a few additional minor chips in the epiplastra and xiphiplastron (Fig 14C and 14D). The carapace consists of a greater number of small fragments than the plastron, but it is still mostly reconstructable and the majority of it is present. Specimen UMNH VP 27652 is the partial left anterior carapace and associated hypoplastral midline fragment, preserving the base of the left posterior buttress (Fig 15). It is quite weathered, and little diagnostic morphology is preserved. UMNH VP 27319 is a section of anterior midline carapace. UMNH VP 26729 is a large, fragmentary specimen consisting of two fused sections of midline carapace and two sections of plastron. The external surface is badly weathered, rendering the sulci virtually imperceptible. The carapacial bone of UMNH VP 26729 is extremely thick. While this specimen is quite fragmentary, it is diagnosed as C. undatum based on the large size and extensive thickness [26]. Specimen UMNH VP 27544 is a juvenile Chisternon undatum, which includes a partial neural row with a few adjacent costals, a partial plastron, and numerous undiagnostic carapace and plastron fragments (Fig 16). The plastron of UMNH VP 27544 is not as well-preserved as the carapace, but much of it is present, including most of the hyoplastra, mesoplastra, and right hypoplastron. Sutures are patent in some areas of both the plastron and carapace in several of the presumed adult C. undatum specimens described here (UMNH VP 27554, UMNH VP 27652, UMNH VP 26729; Figs 14 and 15), despite their large body size. Hutchison [26] notes the retention of some visible sutures longer into adulthood as a differentiating feature of C. undatum compared to B. arenosa.

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Fig 14. Carapace and plastron of Uintan Chisternon undatum specimen UMNH VP 27554.

(A) Dorsal view of carapace. (B) Ventral view of carapace. (C) Ventral view of plastron. (D) Dorsal view of plastron. Abbreviations: Ab = abdominal scale; An = anal scale; Ce = cervical scale; Eg = extragular scale; Fe = femoral scale; FeA = femoral-anal sulcus; Gs = gular scale; Hu = humeral scale; HEg = humeral-extragular sulcus; Ma = marginal scale; Pe = pectoral scale; Pl = pleural scale; Ve = vertebral scale.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0180574.g014

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Fig 15. Partial Uintan Chisternon undatum specimen, UCMP VP 27652.

Dorsal view of carapace.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0180574.g015

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Fig 16. Carapace and plastron fragments of Uintan subadult Chisternon undatum specimen UMNH VP 27544.

(A) Dorsal view of carapace. (B) Ventral view of carapace. (C) Ventral view of plastron. (D) Dorsal view of plastron. Red arrows indicate puncture pits consistent with carnivore tooth marks.

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Carapace.

The most complete carapace, UMNH VP 27554, is a large specimen, with a midline carapace length of 440 mm (Fig 14A and 14B). This magnitude places the specimen securely within the body size of Chisternon undatum, the larger of the two baenid species from the Uinta Formation [26]. Additionally, many of the carapacial and plastral characters associated with C. undatum are also present in this specimen. Intriguingly though, its maximum plastral length is relatively shorter at 367 mm, which falls at the threshold between the ranges for B. arenosa and C. undatum [26]. The original curvature of the carapace is maintained, and the shell profile is elongated and substantially flatter than the similarly preserved B. arenosa specimen, UMNH VP 27604 (Figs 3A and 14A'). The other incomplete carapace representatives (UMNH VP 27319, UMNH VP 27652, UMNH VP 27544) also appear relatively flattened anteriorly (Figs 15 and 16), suggesting a low dome, although it is not possible to directly measure the curvature in these partial specimens. The nuchal area in UMNH VP 27554 (Fig 14B) and UMNH VP 27319 is fused, making it difficult to definitively assess the presence of a preneural bone; however, the distance between the anterior tip of the shell and the first neural is quite long (50.1 mm and 48.9 mm, respectively), substantially longer than in UMNH VP 27191 (32.5 mm), a B. arenosa specimen of similar body size (Fig 5). This increased distance suggests the presence of multiple bones anterior to the first neural in UMNH VP 27554 and UMNH VP 27319.

There is a subtle mid-dorsal ridge that runs the length of the available neural series in UMNH VP 27554 (Fig 14A). However, the incomplete UMNH VP 27652, UMNH VP 27319, and UMNH VP 26729 all lack any apparent midline ridge (Fig 15). In the subadult UMNH VP 27544, this crest expands out into a triple ridge in some places, with two parasagittal lines running parallel to the midline elevation (Fig 16A). This condition mirrors that seen in subadult B. arenosa specimens UMNH VP 27537, UMNH VP 27540, UCMP 179520, and UMNH VP 27547 (Figs 11 and 12). In UMNH VP 26729, visible sutures of two neurals of unknown position reveal a very rectangular shape of these elements. In the subadult UMNH VP 27544, the neural bones are coffin-shaped (Fig 16A and 16B), and neural I is subrectangular, while neurals II and III are elongated and contain two parasagittal anterior projections. The pygal is divided into two separate elements by the suprapygal (Fig 14A and 14B), as has been described in other Uintan baenids [55]. The posterior margin of the suprapygal is curved and concave anteriorly, creating a caudal carapacial notch, with the exception of a small, posterior midline projection (Fig 14A and 14B).

The cervical scale is divided into multiple small cervical scales (Figs 14A, 14B and 15), as in other Eubaenines other than Baena [2]. A prepleural scale, an archetypal C. undatum trait [6, 26], is present (Figs 14A, 14A' and 15). Vertebral I of UMNH VP 27539 has the shape of a flattened pyramid, constricted anteriorly with its lateral borders flaring more laterally as they course caudally, such that the scale is wider caudally than it is cranially. Vertebrals II-IV are longer than they are wide (Fig 14A and 14A'), as in Eubaenines [2, 6]. Vertebral V contacts the posterior margin of the carapace, interrupting the ring of marginal scales (Fig 14A and 14A'), as in baenodds [4, 6].

Plastron.

The measurable maximum plastral lengths in these new C. undatum specimens range from 367–400 mm. The anterior lobe of the plastron is truncated, and triangular-shaped compared to the B. arenosa specimens described herein (Fig 14C and 14D). The sulci do not extend onto the dorsal surface, as in other baenids [6, 55]. There is a thick midline ridge coursing antero-posteriorly along the dorsal surface of the entoplastron (Fig 14C). The mesoplastra are triangular and converge to contact each other at a small point at the midline (Fig 14). This mesoplastral shape typifies C. undatum to the exclusion of other baenids [6]. In the subadult UMNH VP 27544, the right and left mesoplastra are separated by a midline fontanelle, although these elements expand in adulthood to articulate with one another (Fig 15C and 15D). The anterior buttresses are prominent, and contact the anterior costals extensively, as in other baenids (Figs 14 and 15) [6]. The cranial opening is consequently quite narrow in the single specimen in which it can be fully assessed (UMNH VP 27554; Fig 14).

The gular scales are moderately-sized and subtriangular (Figs 14C, 14C'–16), as in Eubaena hatcheri [8]. However, the extragular scales contact each other broadly at the midline posterior to the gular scales (Fig 14C), as characterizes baenodds [4, 6], albeit not as extensively as in the B. arenosa specimens. The humeral-extragular sulcus varies in its form among the C. undatum specimens. In UMNH VP 27554, the humeral-extragular sulcus is sigmoidal (Fig 14C), as in other Uintan specimens (such as Baena specimens UMNH VP 27539, UMNH VP 27543, UMNH VP 27541). However, UMNH VP 26729 demonstrates the more classic eubaenine condition of a relatively straight course. The femoral-anal sulcus, however, is omega-shaped and continues onto the hypoplastron (Figs 14 and 16), as in other baenodds [4, 6]. There is a slight, sloping xiphiplastral notch (Fig 14 C and 14C'). The interfemoral sulcus is deep and relatively straight (Fig 14C).

Cranial morphology.

The new Baena arenosa partial skull UMNH VP 27535 exhibits morphological patterns that are generally consistent with that of other B. arenosa crania (Fig 2). However, a few notable variations were observed, especially in the basicranial region. In UMNH VP 27535, the tuberculum basioccipitale flare out laterally, and their tips are indented. This morphology contrasts with that of the other Uintan B. arenosa specimen CM 2956, in which the tuberculum basioccipitale are oriented almost directly caudally, and the tips are smooth and slightly rounded. The tuberculum of UMNH VP 27535 also extend much further caudally (~4.8 mm from the rest of the basicranium) and flare more widely than in the subadult B. arenosa MCZ 4072, in which they hardly extend beyond the margin of the body of the basioccipital. The condylus occipitalis of UMNH VP 27535 is crescent-shaped and concave dorsally, in contrast to the oval shape of CM 2956.

The two foramina posterius canalis carotici in UMNH VP 27535 are round, large, and contained entirely within the pterygoid. This condition is unlike that of most baenids, in which these foramina lie within the basisphenoid-pterygoid suture. However, while an interesting trait, variation in position and size of this foramen likely has limited taxonomic implications [48]. The large size of this foramen implies a sizeable arteria carotica interna, which provides the primary blood supply to the brain.

While the temporal region of UMNH VP 27535 is incomplete, the preserved portion of the fossa temporalis superior suggests a minor degree of temporal emargination, similar to other B. arenosa specimens, including CM 2956, USNM 17998, and AMNH 5971 [2]. Gaffney [2] and Joyce and Lyson [6] attribute this character to the genus Baena, and consider it a differentiating factor between it and the contemporaneous Chisternon. A reduction in temporal emargination evolved independently in several baenid lineages after the K/T Boundary [37]. Gaffney [48] suggested that B. arenosa nasal bones may be either fused to the frontals or lost entirely. However, in UMNH VP 27535, a suture is visible between the nasal and frontal on the left side, suggesting that these elements are separate bones in this specimen.

Shell morphology.

These newly discovered shell specimens of Baena arenosa and Chisternon undatum extend the recognized morphological variation in these species, and call into question the validity of several characters that employed in taxonomic assessments within Baenidae. First, baenid shells are typically described as moderately domed [2, 6]; yet, in the case of Baena arenosa specimen UMNH VP 27604, the degree of carapacial doming is quite pronounced (Fig 4A). The steep lateral margins of the carapace created by this doming result in peripherals that are nearly vertically oriented and costals that are extremely curved. This contrasts with the more classically less domed Uintan B. arenosa specimens UMNH VP 27191 and UMNH VP 27192 (Figs 5–8), and C. undatum specimen UMNH VP 27554 (Fig 14), although some of this flatness may be the result of post-depositional deformation.

B. arenosa and C. undatum have both been described as lacking a sigmoidal humeral-extragular sulcus [6]. However, in the majority of our specimens for which this morphology was preserved (n = 10), we observed either a distinctly sigmoidal or gently sigmoidal sulcus (Figs 3, 5, 10 and 13). Only two specimens deviate from this pattern: one B. arenosa specimen (UMNH VP 27085) in which the humeral-extragular sulcus is a subtle inverted omega shape (Fig 8), and one C. undatum (UMNH VP 26729) with the expected straight humeral-extragular sulcus morphology. Additionally, in one B. arenosa specimen (UMNH VP 27191), the femoral-anal sulcus lacks the distinguishing omega shape of baenodds, and does not appear to extend onto the hypoplastron (Fig 5). While the remainder of the Uintan baenid specimens described herein display the expected omega configuration of this sulcus, this uncharacteristic specimen highlights existence of variation within the species, and moderates the synapomorphic status of this trait within the Baenodda.

In several Uintan B. arenosa specimens that adequately preserve the anterior carapace (e.g., UMNH VP 27191, UMNH VP 27541, UMNH VP 27653, UFH 11739), the cervical scale is divided into multiple cervicals (Figs 4C, 5A and 6A). This condition is consistent with AMNH 5977 and 5900 as depicted by Gaffney [2], who classified these specimens as B. arenosa, and with other eubaenine taxa. However, it should be noted that given the recent resurrection of “B.” affinis [6], the B. arenosa hypodigm as described by Gaffney should best be viewed as a chimera. This morphology contrasts with Joyce and Lyson [6], who describe Baena as being differentiated from other eubaenines by possessing a single, undivided cervical scale. In our sample, only UMNH VP 27539 appears to display the single cervical scale morphology (Fig 6C). The type specimen of B. arenosa, USNM 103, is unfortunately missing the anterior border of the carapace [56]. Hay [8] also described multiple cervical scales in his “Baena riparia” (AMNH 106), specimens which are now subsumed within B. arenosa. Thus, it appears that many specimens now included in the B. arenosa hypodigm, including the new Uintan fossils described here, possess a divided cervical scale. This suggests that this character is variable within the species, or misinterpreted by Joyce and Lyson [6]. Since multiple cervical scales are considered a synapomorphy of the Eubaeninae [2], this finding is not surprising. Furthermore, the baenid Boreyms pulchra has also been described as variably possessing subdivided cervical scales [].

Postcrania.

Thoroughly described and documented postcranial fossils are comparatively rare in the baenid fossil record [6]. In fact, Joyce & Lyson attribute all postcranial fossils that were originally ascribed to B. arenosa, B. riparia, and B. sima to the newly reinstated “B.” affinis [6]. Vertebral fossils are associated here with two new Uintan B. arenosa specimens: two cervical vertebrae of unknown position in UMNH VP 27535, and dorsal vertebrae (D8-10 and S1) in UMNH VP 27191 (Fig 3A and 3B). The smaller of the two cervical vertebra in B. arenosa specimen UMNH VP 27535 appears opisthocoelous (convex anteriorly, concave posteriorly) [Fig 3B]. This condition has been described in C8 of C. undatum, while the C2 and C3 of C. undatum are procoelous (concave anteriorly, convex posteriorly), and its C4 is amphicoelous (concave anteriorly and posteriorly) [8]. However, another possibility is that this surface in UMNH VP 27535 represents an intercentral body that has fused to the centrum. This condition is described in Boremys pulchra [57] and Peckemys brinkman [37], and likely represents a fused notochord [57].

Specimen UMNH VP 27535 also appears to have cervical ribs at multiple vertebral levels (Fig 3C and 3D). Reduced cervical ribs were present in the ancestral crown turtle lineage [58–60]. Within baenids, cervical ribs have been described in association with the atlas of Boremys pulchra [57], but are absent in Arvinachelys [36] and Peckemys brinkman [37]. The functional implications of these structures relate to the physical constraints they impose on neck retraction into the shell. Werneberg and colleagues [61] argue that cervical ribs limit the retraction mechanism by decreasing flexibility of the neck. This interpretation is consistent with previous studies suggesting that baenids may have had limited ability to retract their necks [2, 8, 62]. This restricted retraction was likely accompanied, however, by a muscular advantage. Cervical ribs serve as attachment sites for musculature of the neck [61], thus possibly providing B. arenosa a mechanical advantage in neck mobility. Thus, we infer that B. arenosa, despite having limited neck retraction capabilities, likely possessed powerful neck movement. The extensive bony roofing of the skull is consistent with the inability to pull the head within the shell (e.g., as in Platysternon).