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New species of ancient Arctic mammals discovered in Alaska
The fossils show varied tooth shapes and an early Asia-to-North America migration that may have helped the mammals survive harsh Arctic conditions.
- American researchers identified three previously unknown rodent-like species in Alaska's Prince Creek Formation, naming them Camurodon borealis, Qayaqgruk peregrinus, and Kaniqsiqcosmodon polaris.
- The fossil site dates back 73 million years, and multituberculates were Earth's longest-lived mammal group, persisting for more than 100 million years and surviving the asteroid impact that killed dinosaurs.
- Researchers found striking tooth shape differences suggesting distinct dietary niches, while Qayaqgruk peregrinus ancestors migrated from Mongolia in East Asia to North America about 92 million years ago.
- Co-Author Patrick Druckenmiller from the University of Alaska in Fairbanks said these findings add evidence that the ancient Arctic hosted unique, polar-adapted species.
- Shelley added that "deep time reminds us that a place is not just a point on a map, but a long, layered history of landscapes and inhabitants.
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Tiny mammals survived Arctic darkness alongside dinosaurs, scientists discover
More than 70 million years ago, the Arctic was not the frozen, empty place we know today. Instead, it was home to forests, dinosaurs, and small furry mammals that managed to survive long winters with months of darkness. Now, researchers from University of Colorado Boulder and their collaborators have discovered three previously unknown species of […] The post Tiny mammals survived Arctic darkness alongside dinosaurs, scientists discover appeared…
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Total News Sources44
Leaning Left8Leaning Right8Center15Last UpdatedBias Distribution48% Center
Bias Distribution
- 48% of the sources are Center
48% Center
L 26%
C 48%
R 26%
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