An international team have discovered the fossil of what seemed to be one of the largest otter species on earth. This discovery was made in Yunnan Province, Southernwest China. The said team was conducted groundbreaking research to further their knowledge on the evolution of the otter family.
The newyly-discovered species of otter was called Siamogale melilutra. It was described to have the size of a wolf, and weighed approximately 110lbs. It is twice larger than biggest otters that exist. Researchers claimed that this fossil came from an ancient lineage of extinct otters that existed at least 18 million years. An isolated teeth recovered from Thailand has been linked to this otter. Experts were able to obtain information on the history, taxonomy and morphology of this new species from its skeletal elements. These findings have been recorded in The Journal on Systematic Paleontology published by Taylor & Francis.
According to Scienmag, researchers have flattened the cranium even if it is “incredibly” complete during fossilization. Throughout the process, they have used a CT-scan to virtually track the specimen. Its bones were so delicate that it became almost impossible for the researchers to restore the cranium.
In an interview with CNN, Prof. Ji Xueping, one of the leaders of the Chinese Field Team, said that they realized that the newly-discovered otter could not be a new species “because of its huge size." He also clearly stated that he is not an expert in carnivores. However, he knew when there is a looming discovery when the fossil was taken out of the ground.
Prior to this discovery, a dinosaur fossilhas been found in Guangzhou, China. It has been said that the specimen was nearly destroyed because excavators have been using bombs and dynamites. A school was being constructed with the site.
