University of Washington researchers identify new prehistoric mammal species Cimolodon desosai
Updated
Updated · ScienceDaily · Apr 27
University of Washington researchers identify new prehistoric mammal species Cimolodon desosai
11 articles · Updated · ScienceDaily · Apr 27
The fossil, found in Baja California and estimated at 75 million years old, includes rare skeletal remains beyond teeth, such as a skull, jaws, femur, and ulna.
Advanced digital imaging and micro-CT scans enabled the team to confirm Cimolodon desosai as a distinct species, revealing its small size, omnivorous diet, and ability to move on ground and in trees.
The discovery sheds light on how small, adaptable mammals like multituberculates survived the dinosaur extinction, offering insights into mammalian evolution and ancient ecosystems of the Late Cretaceous.
What molecular secrets in its diet helped this ancient mammal outlive dinosaurs?
How is modern scanning technology revealing the hidden lives of prehistoric creatures?
How did a hamster-sized mammal manage to survive the dinosaur-killing asteroid?
Did some 'extinct' species survive the asteroid, challenging what we know?
An asteroid wiped out 75% of life, so how fast did new species emerge?