This extinct tree-dwelling mammal may be among humans’ closer relatives
The planet’s earliest mammals are an important part of our evolutionary history, yet remain shrouded in mystery. One of them, Mixodectes pungens lived in western North America during the early Paleocene–about about 66 to 56 million years ago. It was first discovered over 140 years ago by paleontologist–and 1881 Popular Science profile subject–Edward Drinker Cope. But most of what we know about them came from tiny jawbone fragments and fossilized teeth collected in the years since. Now, we may have some answers, thanks to a well-preserved 62 million-year-old skeleton. This particular Mixodectes pungens specimen represents a mature adult that weighed about three pounds, lived in trees, feasted on leaves, and may be among our closer evolutionary relatives. The findings are detailed in a study published March 11 in the journal Scientific Reports. “A 62-million-year-old skeleton of this quality and completeness offers novel insights into mixodectids, including a much clearer picture of their...
