The first Anguilliformes:: I.: Revision of Cenomanian genera Anguillavus Hay, 1903 and Luenchelys nov gen.

New specimens from Cenomanian outcrops of Lebanon permit redescribtion of the first eel-like fossil fishes. Anguillavus bathshebae Hay, 1903 becomes synonymous with the type species A. quadripinnis Hay, 1903. A new fossil eel with pelvic fins, Anguillavus mazeni nov. sp., is furthermore proposed. In the same way, the revision of Luenchelys minimus nov. gen., nov. sp., reveals some morphological variations at the specific level and a widespread biogeographical repartition which potentially can be important. This whole anatomical revision is a necessary basis for integrating these fossils into the Anguilliformes (Teleostei, Elopomorpha) and gives an idea of the plesiomorphic structural pattern of the order, in which the modern forms are particularly specialised. (C) 2003 Editions scientifiques et medicales Elsevier SAS. Tons droits reserves.