Pronunciation: krip-TAR-kus
Meaning: Hidden arch
Author/s: Holmes et al. (2026)
Synonyms: None known
First Discovery: Alberta, Canada
Acta Ordinal: #1204
Cryptarcus russelli
(Russel's Hidden Arch)Etymology
Cryptarcus is derived from the Latin "crypticus" (hidden) and "arcus" (arch), referring to the fact that the holotype was "hidden" within the genus Chasmosaurus, and to the shape of the bony strut that runs horizontally across the frill and helps frame its openings.
The species epithet, russelli (ROO-sell-eye), honours discoverer Loris Shano Russell.
Discovery
The holotype of Cryptarcus (CMNFV 8800, a mostly complete skull) was discovered in the Dinosaur Park Formation near the Onefour Research Station, 33 km southeast of the hamlet of Manyberries, Alberta, Canada, by Loris Russell in 1936.
A referred specimen (TMP 2013.019.0038, a partial frill) was found by Wendy Sloboda on 7 July 2013 on the Sage Creek Grazing Reserve, 5.7 km to the east of the holotype quarry.
Preparators
S. Pan (holotype)
