Fossilized Tribute: Paleontologists Name New Extinct Sawshark Species After Chainsaw Man's Pochita

The intersection of ancient science and modern pop culture has yielded a truly extraordinary discovery: a newly identified extinct species of sawshark, dubbed Pochitaserra patriciacanalae. A dedicated team of Chilean paleontologists recently unveiled this remarkable find, deliberately naming the prehistoric creature after Pochita, the iconic 'Chainsaw Devil' from the critically acclaimed anime and manga phenomenon, Chainsaw Man.

This groundbreaking identification originated from rigorous analysis of over 300 kilograms of sediment extracted from the Upper Miocene deposits of northern Chile's Bahía Inglesa Formation. This site is globally recognized for its remarkably preserved fossil record of cartilaginous fishes.

Among the 19 chondrichthyan taxa cataloged during the study, Pochitaserra patriciacanalae stands out, not just for its unique biological characteristics, but for the creative homage embedded within its scientific nomenclature. The genus name, Pochitaserra, is a brilliant fusion, incorporating Pochita's name directly with the natural, serrated features characteristic of the sawshark genus.

This decision reflects the profound cultural reach of Chainsaw Man, demonstrating how the global appeal of Japanese animation continues to permeate diverse fields, including the strict conventions of scientific naming.

Published in the prestigious journal Papers in Palaeontology in 2025, the research provides the first detailed description of fossil microremains from this significant Chilean Upper Miocene location. This exceptional naming choice ensures that Pochita’s legacy is now preserved not only in cultural memory but also deep within the Earth’s geological record. It serves as a fascinating example of the growing synergy between rigorous scientific exploration and contemporary global fandom, captivating both paleontologists and anime enthusiasts worldwide.