<p><strong>High-fidelity preservation of the Scarabaeoidea (Insecta) exoskeletons from the Miocene of Shanwang</strong></p>

Abstract

The Shanwang Fauna has been one of the well-known Miocene Konservat-Lagerstätten for a long time, but the high-fidelity preservation of the fossils has been often ignored. This paper illustrates the exceptional preservation displayed by some fossil insects from the Shanwang Formation. The microstructures of the preserved exoskeletons were analyzed using a scanning electron microscope and a transmission electron microscope. The epicuticle, procuticle, and some fine details such as cuticular scales could be recognized from the structural remains. These details could enable the identification of valued taxonomic and phylogenetic features and contribute to understanding the diagenetic environment.