Abstract

Abstract Two new small Eomys species of the Chattian Lower Freshwater Molasse of Central Switzerland are described. Eomys helveticus n. sp. and Eomys schluneggeri n. sp. from the localities Rigi 1 and Rigi 2 are characterized by their relatively small dimensions and the metalophid of the lower molars not being connected to the anterolophid. In addition, E. schluneggeri n. sp. shows some morphological similarity to the genus Eomyodon Engesser, 1987. The two new Eomys species have so far never been found in any of the numerous MP 25 and MP 26 localities in Central Europe. In both faunas Eomyidae and Gliridae were extremely frequent, whereas the Theridomyidae, usually the most frequent rodent family in the Late Oligocene, were very rare or absent. We interpret these peculiarities as being linked with the special ecological conditions, namely a relatively wet, forested environment.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.