The osteology of Triisodon crassicuspis (Cope, 1882): New insights into the enigmatic "archaic" placental mammal group "Triisodontidae".

ABSTRACT: Following the end-Cretaceous mass extinction, mammals underwent an increase in body size, taxonomic diversity and ecological specialization throughout the Paleocene, exemplifying their adaptability. One especially enigmatic group is the "Triisodontidae", medium- to large-sized ungulate-like placentals from the Paleocene which are best known from their teeth that exhibit adaptations towards carnivory. The "triisodontids" were the first large carnivorous mammals and pre-date, and may have given rise to, Mesonychia, a group of more specialized placental carnivores. The "triisodontids" have been well-described from dental material, although very little is known about their postcrania. Here, we describe the postcrania of Triisodon crassicuspis-the most completely represented species of the genu

SUBMITTER: Toosey WJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11554371 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature