How to translate text using browser tools
1 November 2016 New Material of the Marsupial (Mammalia, Metatheria) Herpetotherium merriami (Stock and Furlong, 1922) from the John Day Formation, late Oligocene, Oregon, USA
William W. Korth, Jennifer Cavin
Author Affiliations +
Abstract

Recently discovered specimens of the marsupial Herpetotherium merriami (Stock and Furlong, 1922) from the John Day Formation, Oregon, are described. The species was previously known only from a single (type) specimen. These additional specimens have allowed for a revised diagnosis of the species based on the presence of an additional stylar cusp on the upper molars, as well as the relative size of the stylar cusps. This new material also allows for an examination of the variability within the species and establishes a time range for the species, which extends through most of the Arikareean (late Oligocene: Ar1–Ar3: late Rupelian-Aquitanian). Herpetotherium merriami is distinct within the genus because it is among the larger of the species, but one of the latest occurring, whereas the general pattern of the genus is a reduction in size through time.

© 2016, The Paleontological Society
William W. Korth and Jennifer Cavin "New Material of the Marsupial (Mammalia, Metatheria) Herpetotherium merriami (Stock and Furlong, 1922) from the John Day Formation, late Oligocene, Oregon, USA," Journal of Paleontology 90(6), 1225-1232, (1 November 2016). https://doi.org/10.1017/jpa.2016.117
Accepted: 1 June 2016; Published: 1 November 2016
RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS
Get copyright permission
Back to Top