Evolution of the extinct Sabretooths and the American cheetah-like cat
Data(s) |
2005
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Resumo |
The sabretooths (Smilodon and Homotherium) and the American cheetah-like cat (Miracinonyx) were the top predators in Late Pleistocene America, but became extinct about 13 thousand years ago. As the evolutionary history of these taxa remains poorly understood , we analysed their phylogenetic relationship to extant felids. In contrast to previous molecular studies , our results show that the sabretooths diverge early and are not closely related to any living cats. This supports their morphological placement in a separate subfamily (Machairodontinae). Despite its remarkable morphological similarity to the African cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus), Miracinonyx appears to have evolved from a puma-like ancestor, presumably in response to similar ecological pressures. |
Identificador | |
Publicador |
Elsevier |
Relação |
DOI:10.1016/j.cub.2005.07.052 Barnett, Ross, Barnes, Ian, Phillips, Matthew J., Martin, Larry D., Harington, C. Richard, Leonard, Jennifer A., & Cooper, Alan (2005) Evolution of the extinct Sabretooths and the American cheetah-like cat. Current Biology, 15(15), R589-R590. |
Fonte |
Science & Engineering Faculty |
Palavras-Chave | #060100 BIOCHEMISTRY AND CELL BIOLOGY #sabretooths #American cheetah-like cat #Smilodon and Homotherium |
Tipo |
Journal Article |