A nearly complete skeleton of Ernanodon (Mammalia, Palaeanodonta) from Mongolia: Morphofunctional analysis
Document Type
Article
Publication Title
Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology
Abstract
Ernanodon, one of the most enigmatic Asian fossil mammals, was previously known by a single specimen from the late Paleocene (Nongshanian) of China. Here we document the first record of Ernanodon from Mongolia, represented by a nearly complete skeleton from the late Paleocene (Gashatan) of the Naran Bulak locality. The new material provides an opportunity to understand the lifestyle and habits of this rare mammal and reevaluate the arguments used to establish the phylogenetic relationships of Ernanodon. Functional analysis indicates that Ernanodon had very strong forelimbs with large claws and used its forelimbs for scratch-digging. Character analysis reveals numerous similarities in postcranial anatomy between Ernanodon and Palaeanodonta. Phylogenetic analysis supports inclusion of Ernanodon in the order Palaeanodonta and suggests that Palaeanodonta and Pholidota are sister groups. © 2012 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.
First Page
983
Last Page
1001
DOI
10.1080/02724634.2012.694319
Publication Date
9-1-2012
Recommended Citation
Kondrashov, Peter and Agadjanian, Alexandre K., "A nearly complete skeleton of Ernanodon (Mammalia, Palaeanodonta) from Mongolia: Morphofunctional analysis" (2012). All KCOM Faculty Publications. 495.
https://scholarworks.atsu.edu/kcom-faculty/495