The Oldest Ethiopian Hipparion (Equinae, Perissodactyla) from Chorora: Systematics, Paleodiet and Paleoclimate

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

4-7-2004

Description

We report here a sample of 5 cheek teeth of a primitive hipparion from the early late Miocene Ethiopian locality of Chorora. This sample represents the oldest hipparion known from Ethiopia, and probably East and South Africa. The sample exhibits a number of distinctly primitive characters that suggest its provisional referral to "Cormohipparion" sp. The Chorora hipparion has none of the more advanced features typical of the latest Miocene-Pleistocene African hipparionine lineage Eurygnathohippus, maintaining a low crown height, lack of ectostylids and pli caballinids. The Chorora hipparion does exhibit a mesowear signal, suggesting that it was a mixed-feeder. The carbon isotope signal also suggests that it was a mixed-feeder that included both browse and C4 grass in its diet.

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