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Neogale africana (Desmarest, 1818), Amazon Weasel, is a poorly known South American carnivore, with records from north-central Brazil to Ecuador and south to central Peru and central Brazil. Based on two videographic records, we report the presence of this species in Bolivia and document a new elevational record. Furthermore, our new record extends the species' distribution by 900 km from the nearest locality in Peru, and by 1500 km from the nearest Brazilian locality. Current gaps in its distribution are attributable to the low detectability and rarity of this mustelid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

. neighboring countries. Recently, an increase in biological surveys and access to natural preserves has led to a better understanding of species distributions in Nicaragua and across Central America. Here, we provide new departmental records for three species of didelphid, 18 chiropterans (Phyllostomidae, Molossidae, Vespertilionidae), one geomyid, and one mustelid from 21 sites across the country. This work underscores the need for additional sampling across Nicaragua to fill gaps in the known distribution of many species. This information can facilitate or inform conservation actions in established and proposed preserves in Nicaragua. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

A study of taxonomic differentiation and transition bias of the cytb gene, focusing on the early stages of speciation, was carried out in 15 subfamilies/families of five orders of Palearctic mammals. It was confirmed that the genetic differentiation among taxa of small and large mammals is shifted by the same taxonomic level, in which connection the period of cryptic speciation of Micromammalia (semi- and allospecific levels) corresponds to the divergence of type species in their genus within Macromammalia. In all cases, both transition bias and its evolutionary compensation took place. The novelty of the study also lies in the proof that the alignment of the transitions and transversion rates in evolutionary lineages has the pattern of a phase transition, and the frequency of transversions in short-cycle species of the orders Insectivora and Rodentia is higher than in long-cycle orders Artiodactyla, Carnivora and Chiroptera while with relative equality of transitions. The latter circumstance might be associated with the traits of metabolism and determines the characteristics of the molecular evolution of mammalian groups with short and long life cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

This study summarizes 17-year results of teriological research of small mammal fauna in Košice Zoo (near the village of Kavečany, 48°47'10.04"N, 21°12'3.26"E, 380 – 420 m a.s.l.). The small mammals evaluated in this study were obtained by trapping in three periods (1992 – 1994, 2000 – 2001, 2003 – 2004) and were the results of three diploma theses. In total, 688 small mammals belonging to 13 species of four families Soricidae, Gliridae, Cricetidae and Muridae were recorded by trapping during the study period. Rodents significantly dominated with 8 species, 583 ex. (84.7%) compared to insectivores represented by 5 species, 105 ex. (15.3%). A gradual diversity decline of small mammal fauna was recorded, with only four mammal species confirmed in 2003 – 2004. This marked difference over the last 17 years was probably the result of anthropic modifications of the Zoo area, mainly the cutting of trees and shrubs of the alluvium, technical modifications of the streambeds as well as the deratization of the building areas and animal enclosures. The assemblage's structure of captured small mammals could also be influenced by other factors, such as the predominant type of traps used, or the number of exposed traps in the vegetation and non-vegetation periods of the year. The obtained results are also a suitable basis and source of information for comprehensive and long-term monitoring in this area, given the epidemiological importance of this group of animals and the possibility of contact with exotic animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

In Latvia, dormice were one of the less studied mammal taxonomic groups until the 21st century, due to their elusive way of life. Historical threat assessments of dormouse species conducted in the 1970s and 1990s were constrained by a scarcity of observations, primarily relying on accidental encounters. In 2021, a comprehensive reassessment of the threat status of four dormouse species recorded in Latvia - Glis glis, Eliomys quercinus, Dryomys nitedula, and Muscardinus avellanarius - was initiated, by applying the methodological framework developed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Here we evaluate the outcomes of these reassessments in the context of previous threat assessments at the national level as well as in the regional context. Historical and current species status in neighbouring countries, as well as necessary protective measures in Latvia were also considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

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In a recent work Teta and collaborators conclude that all taxonomic decisions and new taxa established by Agnolin et al. should be considered invalid. It is not our aim to analyze point by point the criticisms and observations made by Teta et al., some of which we recognize are correct. In the present contribution we emphasize on the epistemological and philosophical flaws made by those authors. Teta et al. sustain their critics almost on authority criterion, acting as judge and jury on what works and what does not in mammalogy. We are convinced that without discussion there is a danger that any scientific discipline can be transformed in a dogma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Wildlife passages are structures built across roads to facilitate wildlife movement and prevent wildlife collisions with vehicles. The efficacy of these structures could be reduced if they funnel prey into confined spaces at predictable locations that are exploited by predators. We tested the so-called prey-trap hypothesis using remote cameras in 17 wildlife passages in Quebec, Canada from 2012 to 2015 by measuring the temporal occurrence of nine small and medium-sized mammal taxa (< 30 kg) that we classified as predators and prey. We predicted that the occurrence of a prey-trap would be evidenced by greater frequencies and shorter latencies of sequences in which predators followed prey, relative to prey–prey sequences. Our results did not support the prey-trap hypothesis; observed prey–predator sequences showed no difference or were less frequent than expected, even when prey were unusually abundant or rare or at sites with higher proportions of predators. Prey–predator latencies were also 1.7 times longer than prey–prey sequences. These results reveal temporal clustering of prey that may dilute predation risk inside wildlife passages. We encourage continued use of wildlife passages as mitigation tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Based on 372 specimens examined, we integrated information from two mitochondrial and four nuclear gene sequences, morphological comparisons and morphometric analyses, as well as distributional patterns and ecological occurrences to revise the Eliurus tanala species group (Nesomyinae), a rodent complex endemic to Madagascar's forests. These evidentiary sources generally proved concordant, supporting description of a new species, E. tsingimbato, indigenous to western dry deciduous forest, mostly associated with limestone karst (tsingy); the two other members of this species group, E. ellermani and E. tanala, are restricted to eastern montane humid forest. Phylogenetic relationships among the three species were poorly resolved, suggesting that their speciation was both recent and rapid. We encountered one instance of conflict between mitochondrial DNA and all other data sources, which we interpret as incomplete lineage sorting involving a population of the new western species. Attention was focused on molecular and morphometric discrimination of the E. tanala and E. antsingy groups where their species distributions overlap in limestone-associated forests of western and northern Madagascar. Phyletic divisions demonstrated within the E. tanala species group are discussed apropos of current models of speciation identified for Malagasy forest-dwelling organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The mammalian atlas, or first cervical vertebra, supports the weight of the head and enables complex movements of the head and neck via articulations with the cranium and axis (second cervical vertebra). Despite these ubiquitous functional roles, the morphology of the atlas varies widely among mammals, suggesting that its shape may be associated with allometry, ecology, behaviour or a combination of these factors. Here, we test the hypotheses that atlas shape is correlated with body size, head size and locomotor behaviour in Euarchontoglires, a diverse group of mammals including primates, rodents, lagomorphs, tree shrews and colugos. We use three-dimensional geometric morphometrics to quantify the shape of the atlas vertebra in 64 species, and use a phylogenetic comparative framework to examine trends in atlas shape across a broad swath of the mammalian tree. Our results indicate that body size is associated with atlas morphology across euarchontogliran mammals, whereas head size and locomotion are not. Strong phylogenetic signal in atlas shape among all groups reiterates the importance of considering evolutionary non-independence of traits, and we further discuss integration of phylogenetic and shape data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Abstract Mammalian taxonomy based on the diagnosability version of the Phylogenetic Species Concept – considered as an operational manifestation of the Evolutionary Species Concept - offers a sound and verifiable base for understanding mammalian classification. There is now strong evidence that a taxonomy dominated by the Biological Synthesis (overlumped) has had deleterious effects on biodiversity conservation, while examples of its benefits remain obscure. It is interesting to note that when dealing with important issues (such as human health) the choice of taxonomy is necessarily analysis-based. In this reply to Zachos (2018), it is emphasized that we should avoid encouraging mistrust in taxonomy that can have negative consequences for taxonomists and taxonomic infrastructures. It is reinstated that while discussion over species concepts is fully legitimate, no doubt taxonomy is crucial to effective monitoring and conservation of mammal biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Abstract The effectiveness of Protected Areas (PAs) in reducing hunting pressure on mammal populations in tropical forests has rarely been examined at a community-wide level. In African forests, commercial and subsistence hunting are widespread, but assessments of mammal abundance and distribution patterns are often lacking. We investigated patterns of occupancy and abundance for 27 species of medium- to large-bodied mammals (>2 kg) within Tanzania's Udzungwa Mountains Afromontane forests, a global biodiversity hotspot. We sampled 22 forest sites within 10 forests under varying degrees of protection, elevation, distance to extractive communities, and levels of law enforcement. We sampled 251.7 km of recce line transects during dry seasons (July–November) between September 2007 and July 2010. We found a strong positive effect of protection status on species richness and on encounter rates of the most commonly encountered species. Consistent with the levels of resources and enforcement within each PA category, there was a significant progression in species richness and abundance from Forest Reserves through Nature Reserves to sites within Udzungwa Mountains National Park. Protective status closely reflected levels of disturbance. Snaring activity, and distance to ranger posts were identified as significant predictors of overall species richness and encounter rates for mammal species, including endemics. The species-area relationship for our study species was found to be largely overridden by levels of protection. Our findings demonstrate PA effectiveness in Afromontane forests and reinforce concerns over hunting pressures particularly the threat posed by snares. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Hunting pressure, including snares, is correlated with reduced mammal populations. • PA status was related to species richness and encounter rates of multiple species. • Distance to ranger posts affected richness, abundance and composition. • Udzungwa Mountains National Park and Nature Reserve out-perform Forest Reserves. • Community-wide assessments are critical to judge PA effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Estimating the number of dolphins in a group is a challenging task. To assess the accuracy and precision of dolphin group size estimates, observer estimates were compared to counts from large‐format vertical aerial photographs. During 11 research cruises, a total of 2,435 size estimates of 434 groups were made by 59 observers. Observer estimates were modeled as a function of the photo count in a hierarchical Bayesian framework. Accuracy varied widely among observers, and somewhat less widely among dolphin species. Most observers tended to underestimate, and the tendency increased with group size. Groups of 25, 50, 100, and 500 were underestimated by <1%, 16%, 27%, and 47%, respectively, on average. Precision of group size estimates was low, and estimates were highly variable among observers for the same group. Predicted true group size, given an observer estimate, was larger than the observer estimate for groups of more than about 25 dolphins. Predicted group size had low precision, with coefficients of variation ranging from 0.7 to 1.9. Studies which depend on group size estimates will be improved if the tendency to underestimate group size and the high uncertainty of group size estimates are included in the analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The skull fragment of muskox Ovibos moschatus (Artiodactyla, Bovidae) obtained from Chasha River bed alluvium near the Buryn (Sumy Region, North-Eastern Ukraine) is described here in detail. It belongs to a young male, and presumably dates back to Late Pleistocene. This new find slightly extends the known Ukrainian range of the species to the east. Taxonomic attribution of extinct muskox and dispersal of Ovibos moschatus within the territory of Ukraine during the Late Pleistocene are also discussed in the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Abstract Roland Springs Ranch Locality 1 (RSR-1) is an early Pleistocene vertebrate faunal locality on the Rolling Plains of Scurry County, Texas. Leporid remains are common among material recovered from ongoing, systematic excavations at RSR-1. The size and morphology of collected lower third premolars were utilized to identify the leporid taxa present at RSR-1. The resulting sample assemblage is unique in composition, including: Hypolagus gidleyi , Hypolagus spp. (small form), Notolagus lepusculus , Nekrolagus progressus (including forms with the Lepus pattern), and Aztlanolagus agilis. The biochronology of such a combination of taxa indicates placement near the boundary between the early and late subdivisions of the Blancan Land Mammal Age, generally consistent with the current interpretation of RSR-1. The RSR-1 sample is considered against the backdrop of Neogene-Quaternary faunal turnover that included the extinction of the Archaeolaginae and radiation within the extant subfamily, Leporinae. Leporid abundance during the late Pliocene-early Pleistocene (Blancan Land Mammal Age) of North America marks peak species richness for the rabbit family. Late Miocene-early Pleistocene changes in climate and grassland composition and structure in North America coincide with this pivotal period of leporid natural history. Environmental shifts potentially created a period of expanded physical heterogeneity and niche diversification that provided the ecological conditions for archaeolagines, Blancan leporines, and emerging derived, modern type (Lepus pattern) leporines to widely coexist. The Lepus pattern of extant cottontails and jackrabbits, is hypothesized as a competitive advantage initiated by grassland change and particularly suited for the arid and open Quaternary Great Plains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The family Desmatophocidae represents an early radiation of extinct pinnipeds that peaked in diversity during the middle Miocene. Although represented by abundant well-preserved fossils, the taxonomy and evolutionary relationships of this family remain poorly known. Late Miocene desmatophocids have been recorded, although none have been formally described, preventing a thorough appraisal of their decline and extinction. We report the discovery of a new species, Allodesmus demerei sp. nov. represented by a partial skeleton with cranium, mandibles, and axial skeleton, from the upper Miocene Montesano Formation of Washington, prompting reinterpretation of desmatophocid taxonomy, phylogeny, and extinction. Phylogenetic analysis (95 characters, 26 taxa) found strong support for monophyletic Desmatophocidae and Allodesmus. Desmatophocidae was found as sister to Phocidae with poor support. Allodesmus demerei was placed within the Allodesmus as the sister taxon to Allodesmus kernensis. The geochronologically young age (10.5–9.1 Mya) of Al. demerei establishes this species as the last of the desmatophocid seals. The middle Miocene peak in desmatophocid diversity coincides with the middle Miocene climatic optimum, suggesting that declining sea surface temperature played a role in their decline and extinction. Walruses diversified and increased in body size during the mid- to late Miocene as desmatophocids declined, suggesting some form of ecological displacement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Infant handling describes interactions between infants and non-maternal group members and is widespread across mammalian taxa. The expression of infant handling behaviors, defined as any affiliative or agonistic interaction between a group member and an infant, varies considerably among primate species. Several functional hypotheses may explain the adaptive value of infant handling including the Kin Selection hypothesis, which describes handling as a mechanism through which indirect fitness is increased and predicts a bias in handling behaviors directed toward related (genetic) infants; the Alliance Formation hypothesis, which describes handling as a social commodity and predicts females with infants will support handlers during conflict; and the Learning-to-Mother hypothesis, which describes handling as a mechanism through which handlers learn species-specific maternal behaviors and predicts that handling will occur most frequently in immature and nulliparous females. Using behavioral observation and data on urinary oxytocin, a neuropeptide hormone known to modulate maternal care and social bonds in mammals, the purpose of this study was to describe the pattern of infant handling in bonobos ( Pan paniscus ) and to explore proposed functional hypotheses. Data show that related infant-handler dyads occurred significantly more frequently than unrelated infant-handler dyads during some of the study period and that handling was positively correlated with support during conflict. Data also showed that immature and nulliparous females handled infants significantly more than other age-sex categories and exhibited higher post handling oxytocin values than other age-sex class. The trends identified in this data set provide insight into the role oxytocin may play in facilitating care-giving behaviors in young female bonobos and help to narrow the focus of future research efforts, particularly those associated with the Kin Selection, Alliance Formation, and Learning-to-Mother functional hypotheses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

A recently proposed taxonomic classification of extant ungulates sparked a series of publications that criticize the Phylogenetic Species Concept (PSC) claiming it to be a particularly poor species concept. These opinions reiteratively stated that (1) the two fundamental elements of the "PSC", i.e., monophyly and diagnosability, do not offer objective criteria as to where the line between species should be drawn; and (2) that extirpation of populations can lead to artificial diagnosability and spurious recognitions of species. This sudden eruption of criticism against the PSC is misleading. Problems attributed to the PSC are common to most approaches and concepts that modern systematists employ to establish species boundaries. The controversial taxonomic propositions that sparked criticism against the PSC are indeed highly problematic, not because of the species concept upon which they are based, but because no evidence (whatsoever) has become public to support a substantial portion of the proposed classification. We herein discuss these topics using examples from mammals. Numerous areas of biological research rest upon taxonomic accuracy (including conservation biology and biomedical research); hence, it is necessary to clarify what are (and what are not) the real sources of taxonomic inaccuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The scarce primate remains from the late Eocene locality of Roc de Santa (Central Pyrenees, NE Spain) were first documented in 1975. This material included a mandibular fragment with P 3 -M 2 and a maxillary fragment with P 3 -M 3 assigned to Adapis magnus (later transferred to the genus Leptadapis ), and an isolated M 3 attributed to Necrolemur antiquus . However, these specimens were never described in detail. We have thoroughly studied these specimens, with the exception of the mandibular fragment, which has been lost. The maxillary fragment is much smaller than in Leptadapis magnus and shows clear morphological differences from that species; this specimen is assigned to Microchoerus hookeri . Similarly, the isolated M 3 resembles that of M. hookeri in size and morphology, and can therefore be attributed to this taxon. In addition, we describe an upper incisor never reported previously, which can also be allocated to M. hookeri , representing the first description of this tooth for the species. Therefore, we conclude that the previous taxonomic determinations were mistaken and all the available primate specimens from Roc de Santa can be confidently assigned to the species M. hookeri , previously described from the same-age localities of Sossís, Spain, and Eclépens-B, Switzerland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The middle Eocene Pondaung Formation in Myanmar has yielded a rich mammalian fauna including several Primate taxa. Hyaenodonta are known by the genera Kyawdawia , Yarshea , Orienspterodon , and two other indeterminate taxa. We describe here new material of Kyawdawia , including some morphological details, a new species of the hypercarnivorous genus Propterodon and an indeterminate species, different from those described earlier in Myanmar, and characterized by a reduction of m3 and would belong to a third lineage with the same evolutionary trend as Galecyon and the Limnocyoninae. The hyainailourines ( Orienspterodon ) and hyaenodontines ( Propterodon ) are recorded for the first time in Southeast Asia and these subfamilies appeared in quasi the same time in Europe illustrating probably a profound change in the carnivorous fauna among Laurasia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Abstract: Mammalian taxonomy based on the diagnosability version of the Phylogenetic Species Concept has recently been declared the only sound approach to mammalian classification. In this article, based on the underlying evolutionary ontology of species taxa, I explain the fallacy of these arguments and hold that in a ‘grey area’ after lineage sundering, completely objective species delimitation is impossible, making both lumping and splitting equally correct or incorrect. As a consequence, we may have to get used to the idea that described species are often a poor guide to the delineation of meaningful taxonomic units for conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Abstract: To examine the processes that maintain genetic diversity among closely related taxa, we investigated the dynamics of introgression across a contact zone between two lineages of California voles (Microtus californicus). We tested the prediction that introgression of nuclear loci would be greater than that for mitochondrial loci, assuming ongoing gene flow across the contact zone. We also predicted that genomic markers would show a mosaic pattern of differentiation across this zone, consistent with genomes that are semi‐permeable. Using mitochondrial cytochrome b sequences and genome‐wide loci developed via ddRAD‐seq, we analyzed genetic variation for 10 vole populations distributed along the central California coast; this transect included populations from within the distributions of both parental lineages as well as the putative contact zone. Our analyses revealed that (1) the two lineages examined are relatively young, having diverged ca. 8.5–54 kya, (2) voles from the contact zone in Santa Barbara County did not include F1 or early generation backcrossed individuals, and (3) there appeared to be little to no recurrent gene flow across the contact zone. Introgression patterns for mitochondrial and nuclear markers were not concordant; only mitochondrial markers revealed evidence of introgression, putatively due to historical hybridization. These differences in genetic signatures are intriguing given that the contact zone occurs in a region of continuous vole habitat, with no evidence of past or present physical barriers. Future studies that examine specific isolating mechanisms, such as microhabitat use and mate choice, will facilitate our understanding of how genetic boundaries are maintained in this system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Probainognathian cynodonts are conspicuous elements of the Assemblage Zones of the Triassic Santa Maria Supersequence in southern Brazil. Within this group, the derived clade Prozostrodontia, in which the crown group Mammalia is included, is taxonomic diverse in the Hyperodapedon and Riograndia AZs. We describe here the second known specimen (CAPPA/UFSM 0123) of Prozostrodon brasiliensis, until now only represented by its holotype. CAPPA/UFSM 0123 includes a right dentary with dentition. As in the holotype of P. brasiliensis, it has four lower incisors, pc4 with conspicuous cusp a, and small cusps b, c, and d, pc5-pc6 of ‘triconodont’ type with cusps a > c > b > d, with continuous lingual cingulum bearing up to six small discrete cusps, length of the lower tooth row more than half the length of the dentary, and relatively deep horizontal ramus of the dentary. The new specimen is about 25% smaller than the holotype and there is not a diastema between the canine and postcanine teeth, indicating its juvenile condition. Based on both known specimens of P. brasiliensis, a discussion on tooth replacement is presented, showing that the adult individual has more postcanine tooth morphotypes than the juvenile one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

An anatomical and taxonomic analysis of the mammalian record in the locality of La Poma in Salta Province, Argentina, is here presented. This record consists in two specimens exhumed in levels of the Quebrada de los Colorados Formation referred to the middle late Eocene. The first specimen is represented by a partial skull preserving mostly the rostrum and some dental pieces and was identified as a member of Leontiniidae, although it does not bear enough information for generic or specific determination. The second specimen is represented by more complete material, preserving much of the dentition. It was identified as a new species of the genus Pampahippus, traditionally included in the paraphyletic family Notohippidae. The leontiniid here studied presents several plesiomorphic features identified in other taxa of northwestern Argentina, and this material represents a new example of a pre-Deseadan basal morphotype within the family. Regarding the new species of Pampahippus, it shows clear signs of rising hypsodonty, representing the first case for a notoungulate lineage in the Paleogene of northwestern Argentina. http://www.zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:45D87764-5B63-4487-BAAC-74F8D490AE18 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The systematic value of the middle-ear ossicles, in particular the malleus, has been long recognized for diverse groups. We present systematic work on the characters of the middle-ear ossicles of pinnipeds, focusing on until now poorly studied Southern Hemisphere species. Mallei were extracted from 16 specimens of pinnipeds belonging to five austral and one boreal species of Phocidae and two austral species of Otariidae. Several characters used in this study have been described previously, and some were here modified. Three new characters are here defined and analysed. All characters were mapped onto the phylogeny. Our character analysis shows the transformations that have occurred in the evolution of middle ear ossicles in pinnipeds and identifies diagnostic features of many of its clades. Beyond the identification of specific changes within eachclade, our study of pinniped ossicle evolution documents the occurrence of anatomical convergences with other groups of mammals that live in an aquatic environment, as has occurred in other organ systems as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Glyptodon and Glyptotherium represent the most conspicuous taxa of late Neogene and Pleistocene glyptodonts in South America and North America, respectively. The earliest records of Glyptodon in South America are 1.07 Ma (late early Pleistocene, Calabrian), although the possibility that “ Paraglyptodon uquiensis ” represents a Pliocene specimen of Glyptodon cannot be rejected. Glyptotherium originated from South American ancestry in northern South America or Central America about 3.9 Ma (early late Pliocene, Zanclean) or earlier. The diversity of South American Glyptodon is currently under study, but preliminary evidence would indicate that no more than three species ( G. munizi , G. elongatus and G. reticulatus ) are valid, plus a possible new Andean species. In turn, according to the updated taxonomy proposed herein, Glyptotherium includes two chronospecies. The earliest species, Gl. texanum , differs only slightly from the latest species, Gl. cylindricum . The relationship of Glyptodon and Glyptotherium has been problematical since the discovery of the North American lineage, at first identified as various species of Glyptodon and later considered a separate genus. Glyptodon is recognized as a natural group and recent taxonomic and phylogenetic revisions place all North American glyptodontines into Glyptotherium . In this paper, we propose a detailed morphological comparison between the southern South American species of Glyptodon and Glyptotherium in order to identify diagnostic differences and potential synapomorphies. Both genera can be distinguished mainly by differences in the skull, mandible, dentition, dorsal carapace, and caudal armor, Glyptodon being somewhat larger than Glyptotherium . Both clades show a highly conservative evolution, which could be interpreted as an anagenesis. The scarce records of glyptodonts in Central America show more morphological affinity with Glyptotherium than with Glyptodon . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The paleobiology of Pleistocene proboscideans plays a pivotal role in understanding their history and in answering fundamental questions involving their interactions with other taxa, including humans. Much of our view of proboscidean paleobiology is influenced by analogies with extant elephants. However, a wealth of information is available for reconstructing the paleobiology of ancient proboscideans using data from fossil specimens and preservational settings. Remarkable opportunities include permafrost-derived specimens with preserved soft tissue, intestinal contents with direct evidence of diet, and compositional and structural profiles with subannual temporal resolution archived in appositional systems such as proboscidean tusks. New information on diets and local climates puts our understanding of proboscidean paleoecology on a firmer foundation, but the greatest prospects for new insight spring from life history data now being retrieved from accelerator mass spectrometry-dated fossil material. Interaction between humans and proboscideans has been a critical factor in the history of both groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The mammalian order Eulipotyphla includes four extant families of insectivorans: Solenodontidae (solenodons); Talpidae (moles); Soricidae (shrews); and Erinaceidae (hedgehogs). Of these, Solenodontidae includes only two extant species, which are endemic to the largest islands of the Greater Antilles: Cuba and Hispaniola. Most molecular studies suggest that eulipotyphlan families diverged from each other across several million years, with the basal split between Solenodontidae and other families occurring in the Late Cretaceous. By contrast, Sato et al. (2016) suggest that eulipotyphlan families diverged from each other in a polytomy ∼58.6 million years ago (Mya). This more recent divergence estimate for Solenodontidae versus other extant eulipotyphlans suggests that solenodons must have arrived in the Greater Antilles via overwater dispersal rather than vicariance. Here, we show that the young timetree estimates for eulipotyphlan families and the polytomy are due to an inverted ingroup-outgroup arrangement of the tree, the result of using Tracer rather than TreeAnnotator to compile interfamilial divergence times, and of not enforcing the monophly of well-established clades such as Laurasiatheria and Eulipotyphla. Finally, Sato et al.’s (2016) timetree includes several zombie lineages where estimated divergence times are much younger than minimum ages that are implied by the fossil record. We reanalyzed Sato et al.’s (2016) original data with enforced monophyly for well-established clades and updated fossil calibrations that eliminate the inference of zombie lineages. Our resulting timetrees, which were compiled with TreeAnnotator rather than Tracer, produce dates that are in good agreement with other recent studies and place the basal split between Solenodontidae and other eulipotyphlans in the Late Cretaceous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The Alpine shrew (Sorex alpinus) is considered probably extinct in the Pyrenees. However, newly published phototographs of an 'unknown shrew' from the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park in the Spanish part of the range indicate its recent occurrence in the mountains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Forstercooperiines are a group of large, primitive rhinocerotoids that are commonly regarded as ancestral to later giant rhinos. However, the type genus of forstercooperiines, the Middle Eocene Forstercooperia, is one of the most poorly known rhinocerotoids, and is represented only by fragmentary material. Here we name a new species, Forstercooperia ulanshirehensis, based on five specimens, including a well-preserved cranium and a pair of complete mandibles. This new material was collected from the Ulan Shireh Formation in the western part of the Erlian Basin and the Irdin Manha Formation in the eastern part of the Erlian Basin, northern China. These specimens provide the most complete craniodental remains of Forstercooperia sensu stricto (excluding Pappaceras), and on this basis the species-level taxonomy of forstercooperiines is thoroughly revised and six species of two genera are considered as valid. Specimens previously assigned to ' Forstercooperia minuta' are reassigned to different species based on the revised diagnoses. All equivocal specimens that were thought to have an affinity with Forstercooperiinae are briefly discussed. Based on a new character matrix, phylogenetic analyses fully resolve the relationships of early rhinocerotoids, including the recovery of Forstercooperia and Pappaceras as sister groups. The occurrence of Forstercooperia ulanshirehensis in the eastern and western Erlian Basin is indicative of age correlation between the lower part of the Ulan Shireh Formation and the Irdin Manha Formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The taxonomic status and nomenclature of the golden lemming (Lemmus obensis chrysogaster) remained a puzzle for more than 100 years. It was considered either as an independent species Lemmuschrysogaster or as a subspecies of Lemmus trimucronatus or Lemmus sibiricus. In the most authoritative checklists, without further evidence, it was transferred to the synonym of Lemmus amurensis. However, the type material and specimens from type locality have not been revised since 1903. Here we fill this gap. The sequence of the cytochrome b gene from topotype clearly indicates that the golden lemming is a younger synonym of L. trimucronatus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

We sequenced the complete mitogenome of 39 sloths (19Bradypus variegatus, 4B. tridactylus, 1B. pygmaeus, 1B. torquatus, 4Choloepus didactylus, and 10C. hoffmanni). A Bayesian tree (BI) indicated a temporal split betweenBradypusandCholoepusaround 31 million years ago (MYA, Oligocene) and the other major splits within each genera during the Miocene and Pliocene. A haplotype network (MJN) estimated a lower temporal split between the sloth genera (around 23.5 MYA). Both methods detected the ancestor ofB. torquatusas the first to diverge withinBradypus(21 for BI and 19 MJN), followed by that of the ancestor ofB. tridactylus. The split ofB. pygmaeusfrom the common ancestor withB. variegatuswas around 12 MYA (BI) or 4.3 MYA (MJN). The splits among the previous populations ofB. variegatusbegan around 8 MYA (BI) or 3.6 MYA (MJN). The trans-Andean population was the first to diverge from the remaining cis-Andean populations ofB. variegatus. The genetic differentiation of the trans-AndeanB. variegatuspopulation relative to the cis-AndeanB. variegatusis similar to that found for different species of sloths. The mitogenomic analysis resolved the differentiation ofC. hoffmannifrom theC. didactylusindividuals of the Guiana Shield. However, oneC. didactylusfrom the Colombian Amazon specimen was inside theC. hoffmanniclade. This could be the first example of possible natural hybridization in the Amazon of bothCholoepustaxa or the existence of un-differentiable phenotypes of these two species in some Amazonian areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Birds sitting or feeding on live large African herbivorous mammals are a visible, yet quite neglected, type of commensalistic-mutualistic association. Here, we investigate general patterns in such relationships at large spatial and taxonomic scales. To obtain large-scale data, an extensive internet-based search for photos was carried out on Google Images. To characterize patterns of the structural organization of commensalistic- mutualistic associations between African birds and herbivorous mammals, we used a network analysis approach. We then employed phylogenetically-informed comparative analysis to explore whether features of bird visitation of mammals, i.e., their mean number, mass and species richness per mammal species, are shaped by a combination of host mammal (body mass and herd size) and environmental (habitat openness) characteristics. We found that the association web structure was only weakly nested for commensalistic as well as for mutualistic birds (oxpeckers Buphagus spp.) and African mammals. Moreover, except for oxpeckers, nestedness did not differ significantly from a null model indicating that birds do not prefer mammal species which are visited by a large number of bird species. In oxpeckers, however, a nested structure suggests a non-random assignment of birds to their mammal hosts. We also identified some new or rare associations between birds and mammals, but we failed to find several previously described associations. Furthermore, we found that mammal body mass positively influenced the number and mass of birds observed sitting on them in the full set of species (i.e., taking oxpeckers together with other bird species). We also found a positive correlation between mammal body mass and mass of non-oxpecker species as well as oxpeckers. Mammal herd size was associated with a higher mass of birds in the full set of species as well as in non-oxpecker species, and mammal species living in larger herds also attracted more bird species in the full set of species. Habitat openness influenced the mass of birds sitting on mammals as well as the number of species recorded sitting on mammals in the full set of species. In non-oxpecker species habitat openness was correlated with the bird number, mass and species richness. Our results provide evidence that patterns of bird-mammal associations can be linked to mammal and environmental characteristics and highlight the potential role of information technologies and new media in further studies of ecology and evolution. However, further study is needed to get a proper insight into the biological and methodological processes underlying the observed patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Anoura fistulata is the most specialized nectarivorous bat of the genus Anoura. Its relationships with other species of the genus are uncertain given its external morphological resemblance to all 4 species in the A. caudifer species complex. Here, we show how to properly diagnose A. fistulata and how the glossal tube, unique to this species, should be identified. We also reassess the putative presence of A. fistulata in Bolivia by revisiting the measurements and soft morphology characters of the specimen used for this published record. Our morphometric analyses show that the species in the A. caudifer complex overlap in their morphospace for 23 cranial and postcranial measurements and are indistinguishable using Principal Component Analyses or Linear Discriminant Functions. However, comparing dissections of A. fistulata from Ecuador to the Bolivian record show that it lacks the soft tissue characters unique to A. fistulata, indicating this specimen is an individual of A. caudifer rather than A. fistulata. Given that this was the only record for the country, A. fistulata is not known to occur in Bolivia. Anoura fistulata es el murciélago nectarívoro más especializado del género Anoura. Sus relaciones filogenéticas con otras especies de este género son desconocidas dada su semejanza morfológica con las 4 especies del complejo de especies A. caudifer. En este estudio, presentamos la manera correcta de diagnosticar A. fistulata y mostramos como el tubo glosal, el cual es una adaptación única en esta especie, debe identificarse. También reevaluamos la presencia putativa de esta especie en Bolivia mediante una revisión de las medidas morfológicas y caracteres anatómicos blandos del ejemplar usado en este registro geográfico. Nuestro análisis morfométrico muestra que los ejemplares del complejo de especies A. caudifer se superponen en su morfoespacio para 23 medidas craneales y poscraneales, y son indistinguibles al usar Análisis de Componentes Principales o Funciones Discriminantes Lineares. Sin embargo, al comparar las disecciones de A. fistulata de Ecuador con el ejemplar de Bolivia encontramos que este último no posee los caracteres anatómicos blandos únicos de A. fistulata, lo cual indica que este espécimen pertenece a la especie A. caudifer y no a A. fistulata. Dado que actualmente éste era el único registro de A. fistulata para Bolivia, la especie no se conoce para este país. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Species reside in dynamic environments, simultaneously experiencing variations in climatic conditions, habitat availability and quality, interspecific interactions, and anthropogenic pressures. We investigated variation in foraging ecology of the small mammal community between land-use classifications (i.e., protected national parks and unprotected lands abutting them) in Mole National Park (MNP) and Digya National Park (DNP), representing distinct ecoregions of Ghana. In 5,064 trap nights, we sampled 153 individuals of 23 species within the 2 national parks and adjacent lands outside protected boundaries to describe variation in community composition. We also used δ13 C and δ15 N isotopic ratios from fresh feces to determine main effects and interactions between land use and ecoregion on trophic structure in species and communities of small mammals. Small mammals exhibited distinct community assemblages between ecoregions (i.e., national parks): Gerbilliscus guineae, Hybomys trivirgatus, Malacomys edwardsi, Lemniscomys bellieri, L. zebra, and Taterillus gracilis were only captured in the dry savanna ecoregion of MNP. Additionally, isotopic signatures for nitrogen were significantly lower in MNP (2.83 ± 0.17‰) compared to DNP (4.97 ± 0.33‰), indicating that small mammals occupied different trophic levels between ecoregions. The most common species, Praomys daltoni exhibited variation in isotopic signatures between ecoregions and land use, with higher δ15 N found within MNP boundaries. We found no distinction in δ13 C at the community or species level within or across protected areas. Ultimately, understanding shifts in the ecology of species can inform predictions about community structure and ecosystem function under future environmental and anthropogenic scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

We compared isotopic niche widths of small mammals that co-occur across the Alexander Archipelago and adjacent mainland in southeastern Alaska to test the prediction that dietary niche widths will be greater for individuals living in communities with fewer potential competitors and predators. We quantified the carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) isotopic niche widths of 2 insectivorous shrews (Sorex cinereus and S. monticola), 3 primarily herbivorous rodents (Microtus longicaudus, M. oeconomus, and M. pennsylvanicus), and 1 omnivorous rodent (Peromyscus keeni) and combined these data with information provided by natural history accounts. We sampled islands that varied with respect to size and species richness to compare with localities on the adjacent mainland, where species richness is greatest. Consistent with our predictions, isotopic niche widths were significantly greater on islands relative to mainland localities. Our findings can help guide management strategies within this archipelago through increased understanding of how key community-level interactions vary across localities within this complex landscape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Wild pigs (Sus scrofa) are among the most widespread and destructive invasive mammals in the world. Understanding the spatial ecology of this species is foundational to effectively mitigating further range expansion. We compiled size estimates of home ranges of wild pigs from 30 locations worldwide and modeled the relationship between home-range size and both abiotic (evapotranspiration, latitude, precipitation, and temperature) and biotic (vegetation productivity and mammal species richness) environmental factors. Size of home ranges varied markedly, ranging from 0.62 to 48.3 km2. Mammal species richness was positively correlated with home-range size and was the only predictor in the best model; other abiotic factors typically correlated with richness, i.e., latitude and evapotranspiration, were not significant predictors of wild pig home-range size. Despite indicating correlation rather than cause, our analyses were conducted at the scale of the home range and therefore may support the invasion paradox hypothesis for mammals, which states that biotic interactions have a greater influence on invasive species at finer spatial scales. While we do not suggest that mammal species richness can preclude populations of wild pigs from continuing to spread in their native or non-native ranges, our correlative results suggest that areas with a diverse mammal community may be more resistant to invasion. This finding supports the intrinsic value of conserving native species and highlights the need for future work exploring the specific mechanisms by which species richness and biodiversity can influence the ecology of invasive species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

This is the first installment of a revision of the didelphid marsupial genus Philander, commonly known as gray four-eyed opossums. Although abundant and widespread in lowland tropical forests from southern Mexico to northern Argentina, species of Philander are not well understood taxonomically, and the current literature includes many examples of conflicting species definitions and nomenclatural usage. Our revision is based on coalescent analyses of mitochondrial gene sequences, phylogenetic analyses of mitochondrial and nuclear genes, morphometric analyses, and firsthand examination of relevant type material. Based on these results, we provisionally recognize eight species, of which three are formally treated in this report: P. quica (Temminck, 1824), an Atlantic Forest endemic formerly known as P. frenatus (Olfers, 1818); P. canus (Osgood, 1913), a widespread species formerly treated as a synonym or subspecies of P. opossum (Linnaeus, 1758); and P. pebas, a new species endemic to Amazonia. The remaining, possibly valid, species of Philander can be allocated to two clades. The first is a cis-Andean complex that includes P. andersoni (Osgood, 1913); P. mcilhennyi Gardner and Patton, 1972; and P. opossum. The second is a trans-Andean complex that includes P. melanurus (Thomas, 1899) and P. pallidus (Allen, 1901). Among other nomenclatural acts, we designate a neotype for the long-problematic nominal taxon Didelphis superciliaris Olfers, 1818, and (in an appendix coauthored by Renate Angermann), we establish that Olfers' coeval binomen D. frenata is based on an eastern Amazonian type and is a junior synonym of P. opossum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Marmosets and tamarins (Cebidae, Callitrichinae) constitute the most species-rich subfamily of New World monkeys and one of the most diverse phenotypically. Despite the profusion of molecular phylogenies of the group, the evolution of phenotypic characters under the rapidly-emerging consensual phylogeny of the subfamily has been little studied, resulting in taxonomic proposals that have limited support from other datasets. We examined the evolution of 18 phenotypic traits (5 continuous and 13 discrete), including pelage, skull, dentition, postcrania, life-history and vocalization variables in a robust molecular phylogeny of marmoset and tamarin monkeys, quantifying their phylogenetic signal and correlations among some of the traits. At the family level, our resulting topology supports owl monkeys (Aotinae) as sister group of Callitrichinae. The topology of the callitrichine tree was congruent with previous studies except for the position of the midas group of Saguinus tamarins, which placement as sister of the bicolor group did not receive significant statistical support in both Maximum Parsimony and Bayesian Inference analyses. Our results showed that the highest value of phylogenetic signal among continuous traits was displayed by the long call character and the lowest was exhibited in the home range, intermediate values were found in characters related to osteology and skull size. Among discrete traits, pelage and osteology had similar phylogenetic signal. Based on genetic, osteological, pelage and vocalization data, we present an updated genus-level taxonomy of Callitrichinae, which recognizes six genera in the subfamily: Callimico, Callithrix, Cebuella, Mico, Leontopithecus and Saguinus . To reflect their phenotypic distinctiveness and to avoid the use of the informal “species group”, we subdivided Saguinus in the subgenera Leontocebus, Saguinus and Tamarinus (revalidated here). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The crocidosoricines are a relatively widespread subfamily of shrews with an early Oligocene to late Miocene temporal range, generally known from Europe, and, to a lesser extent, from Asia. A new discovery from the Mongolian middle Miocene locality Sharga 2 (the lower part of the Oshin Suite) adds new data to the understanding of Crocidosoricinae arising in Asia, and allows the description of a new genus and species: Shargainosorex angustirostris gen. et sp. nov. A large number of fossil remains (more than 200 specimens from 95-100 buried shrews) made possible the description of the morphology of the new species in detail, and even to try to reconstruct the rostrum shape and estimate the size of the skull and body. Morphologically, and apparently adaptively, the Shargain shrew was more similar to the Sorex species, including tooth pigmentation, but also carried a number of white-toothed shrew features (Crocidura, Suncus). Based on these findings, we can assume the spreading of Miosorex sensu lato from Europe to Asia during the early Miocene, when the group acquired a number of adaptive sorex-like features as a possible result of occupying new trophic niches in this part of the continent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Aim Diversity dynamics remain controversial. Here, we examine these dynamics, together with the ecological factors governing them, across mammalian clades of different ages and sizes, representing different phylogenetic scales. Specifically, we investigate whether the dynamics are bounded or unbounded, biotically or abiotically regulated, stochastic or ecologically deterministic. Location Worldwide. Time period 150 Myr. Major taxa studied Mammals. Methods Integrating the newest phylogenetic and distributional data by means of several distinct methods, we study the ecology of mammalian diversification within a predictive framework, inspired by classic theory. Specifically, we evaluate the effects of several classes of factors, including climate, topography, geographical area, rates of climatic-niche evolution, and regional coexistence between related and unrelated species. Next, we determine whether the relative effects of these factors change systematically across clades representing different phylogenetic scales. Results We find that young clades diversify at approximately constant rates, medium-sized clades show diversification slowdowns, and large clades are mostly saturated, suggesting that diversification dynamics change as clades grow and accumulate species. We further find that diversification slowdowns intensify with the degree of regional coexistence between related species, presumably because increased competition for regional resources suppresses the diversification process. The richness at which clades eventually saturate depends on climate; clades residing in tropical climates saturate at low richness, implying that niches become progressively densely packed towards the tropics. Main conclusions The diversification process is influenced by a variety of ecological factors, whose relative effects change across phylogenetic scales, producing scale-dependent dynamics. Different segments of the same phylogeny might therefore support seemingly conflicting results (bounded or unbounded, biotically or abiotically regulated, stochastic or ecologically deterministic diversification), which might have contributed to several outstanding controversies in the field. These conflicts can be reconciled, however, when accounting for phylogenetic scale, which might, in turn, produce a more integrated understanding of global diversity dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Aim We documented how the similarity of mammal assemblages on continental and oceanic islands has changed since initial human colonization, since European arrival and overall. We investigated how levels of similarity might change in the future. Location Continental and oceanic islands worldwide. Time period Human settlement of islands to the present, as well as projections for the future. Major taxa studied Mammals. Methods We used mammal occurrence data on islands to calculate the change in similarity using a pairwise approach based on Jaccard's index and a multisite approach based on Jaccard's and Sørensen's measures. We divided the mammal assemblages into two time periods, before and after island colonization or trade began with Europeans. We unpacked the mechanisms driving changes in similarity, exploring how initial similarity interacts with seven types of species turnover events to determine overall change. Finally, we calculated how future similarity levels will change if past trends in introductions and extinctions continue. Results Mammals, on both continental and oceanic islands, show one of the most pronounced cases of homogenization ever observed, and on oceanic islands mammals show the largest increase in homogenization ever observed for a terrestrial group. Most of the homogenization observed to date has been driven by recent historical changes, not by changes that occurred before European arrival. If current patterns of species introductions and extinctions continue, then oceanic islands will experience little additional homogenization, whereas continental islands will homogenize greatly beyond current levels. Main conclusions Mammal assemblages on oceanic islands show nearly an order of magnitude greater change in similarity than plant and bird assemblages. Projections of future similarity indicate that continental and oceanic islands are on different trajectories of change. These trajectories could be altered by management actions, but in some cases those actions that would be impactful run counter to current conservation norms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

As we are faced with the imminent spread of the raccoon (Procyon lotor L.), a successful and highly adaptable invader in Europe, it is necessary to identify the drivers of its distribution and focal areas of its future management. Being an omnivorous species, raccoons can exert considerable influence on prey species of various taxa. Species distribution models for this invasive species can be useful tools for its management. Using a presence-only model (MaxEnt) based on environmental variables selected by raccoon experts, the presence of raccoons in Austria was predicted. Core areas of raccoon colonization are mainly located in and around cities and river valleys. Identified ecological drivers of raccoon distribution comprise climate and land-cover variables, with temperature parameters (e.g. the number of hot days, mean January temperature), the proportion of coniferous forests, settlements and elevation mainly influencing the model output. The importance of habitat parameters changes with the stage of invasion. In Austria's established regions, the probability of raccoon presence was best predicted by variables chosen by an expert of the raccoon's native range, while the predictors chosen by an expert in its introduced range better reflected the situation in recently invaded regions. The significance of climate and land cover in understanding the probability of raccoon presence was shown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The International Code of Zoological Nomenclature allows the naming of new species without a type specimen ever having been preserved. This practice causes problems and is undesirable because if related, cryptic, sibling species are encountered later, it may not be possible either to allocate them with certainty to the earlier named species, or to determine them to be something different., We hypothesised that examination of the instances in which mammalian species were named without preserved types would reveal certain problems that are not unique to them, but are encountered more frequently than when types are preserved. We also thought the Code's stipulation that preserved types are not required in the case of specimens that are no longer 'extant' would present special problems hitherto unremarked upon in the literature., We conducted a review of cases involving putative new species of mammal named since 1900. These were analysed to see what special problems they present and the frequency of such problems., We found that the Code's waiver of the requirement that a type specimen be deposited in a collection if the specimen is no longer extant presents numerous problems-in particular, that a living-at-large type specimen can still be 'extant' even if its whereabouts are unknown at certain times and/or it may no longer be alive. Illustrations alone being used to designate type specimens is especially problematic, owing to mammals' lack of meristic and other obvious distinguishing external characters. Hoaxes, the difficulty in determining that they are hoaxes, and various errors of taxonomic allocation appear to be especially common with names without preserved types. The Code should be revised to require preserved specimens as types for new names. Tissue samples alone for DNA analysis are not ideal for serving this purpose, but should be allowed to meet the requirement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Copyright of Therya is the property of Asociacion Mexicana de Mastozoologia, A. C. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.) more...

Copyright of Therya is the property of Asociacion Mexicana de Mastozoologia, A. C. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.) more...

Copyright of Therya is the property of Asociacion Mexicana de Mastozoologia, A. C. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.) more...

Hegetotheriidae is one of the most advanced clades within the endemic South American placental Order Notoungulata. The speciesHegetotheriopsis sulcatusKramarz & Paz, 2013 differs from all other known hegetotheriids in having a peculiar combination of cranial and dental features, some of them shared with Archaeohyracidae (sister group of Hegetotheriidae). A previous cladistic analysis supportedH. sulcatusas the earliest diverging hegetotheriid. Nevertheless, a more recent analysis, based on a different data matrix, concluded that this species is an advanced form within the family, with the little-knownProhegetotherium sculptumAmeghino, 1897 (late Oligocene) being the most basal taxon. Here we present a revision of the concept and the content ofP. sculptumbased on a re-examination of the type specimens. We find that this material exhibits several dental and cranial characters not recognized in all previous studies; we conclude that no specimen other than the types can be assigned toP. sculptum, and that all the synonymies previously proposed (i.e.P. shumwayiandP. crassus) are unfounded. A new cladistic analysis, combining characters from the two aforementioned analyses, confirms the position ofH. sulcatusas the earliest diverging hegetotheriid. The taxon was originally described based on remains from early Miocene deposits in central and northern Patagonia (Sarmiento, Chichinales and Cerro Bandera formations). Here we report new material from the late Oligocene of Cabeza Blanca (central Patagonia), and reassign other material previously attributed toProhegetotheriumfrom presumably equivalent levels at Quebrada Fiera (central West Argentina). These remains extend the occurrence ofH. sulcatusback to the late Oligocene, and fill an important gap of the early record of Hegetotheriidae. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER] more...