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Merycochoerus

Merycochoerus (Greek: "ruminant" (merux)-like "swine" (khoiros)) is an extinct genus of oreodont of the family Merycoidodontidae, endemic to North America. They lived during the Early Oligocene 33.9—30.8 mya, existing for approximately . Fossils are widespread through the western United States.

Merycochoerus was a cud-chewing plant-eater with a long face, tusk-like canine teeth, heavy body, long tail, short feet, and four-toed hooves. The long animals are thought to have been amphibious, as members of the genus possessed an elongated, barrel-shaped body and short limbs that are typical adaptations found in semi-aquatic mammals.

Species

  • M. carrikeri (syn. Promerycochoerus thomsoni)
  • M. chelydra (syn. Promerycochoerus barbouri)
  • M. magnus
  • M. matthewi
  • M. pinensis
  • M. proprius
  • M. superbus (syn. M. fricki, M. leidyi, M. macrostegus, M. montanus, M. temporalis, Promerycochoerus grandis, P. hatcheri, P. hollandi, P. inflatus, P. latidens, P. loomisi, P. lulli, P. marshi, P. microcephalus)
  • M. vantasselensis

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