Recent discoveries by paleontologists have unveiled fossilized remains of three hyaenodont species, including one previously unknown to science, from Miocene deposits in Pakistan.
“Hyaenodontids, ancestral to modern cats and dogs, once dominated carnivore niches before evolving into larger species,” explained Professor Stephen Jasinski from Harrisburg University of Science and Technology.
This study focused on fossils of three distinct hyaenodont species that thrived from 14 million to 9.5 million years ago.
Fossils were sourced from the Chinji and Nagri Formations near the Siwalik River in Pakistan.
One notable species, tentatively identified as Megistotherium or High Nairo Ross, potentially weighed up to 500 kg, comparable to a polar bear.
The fossils included juvenile teeth, complicating precise identification.
Additional fossilized teeth were identified as belonging to the genus Hyaenodon, known from various northern continents, marking the first specimens uncovered in this region.
These fossil remains also represent the most recent known occurrences of this genus, possibly indicating a new species, pending further analysis.
Estimated to weigh around 30 kg, they were roughly the size of a small gray wolf or leopard.
Researchers also discovered teeth belonging to a lesser-known hyaenodont genus, Metapterodon.
This genus was previously documented only from African fossils, confirming its emergence from Africa during the Miocene.
The newly identified species, Metapterodon anari, may represent one of the latest hyaenodont fossils recorded.
“Metapterodon anari is significant for both its classification and its evolutionary timeline,” stated Professor Jasinski.
“This discovery offers insights into a period when hyaenodontids likely faced competition from emerging carnivorous mammals.”
Metapterodon anari reached approximately 15 kg in length, similar in size to a large red fox or coyote.
“The relevance of these fossils extends beyond taxonomy, illuminating geographical historical connections,” the researchers noted.
“These findings underline the link between Africa and Europe during the Miocene, suggesting potential migrations of hyaenodonts from northeastern regions like China.”
“The Miocene hyaenodonts from Pakistan are particularly compelling as they coexisted with carnivores, providing valuable data on their competition dynamics.”
All exhibited carnivorous traits, with a diet primarily consisting of meat, which may have led to their eventual displacement by other predators.
This research will enhance our understanding of Miocene-era ecosystems in South Asia, a period marked by global cooling and significant shifts in animal communities that laid the groundwork for current ecosystems.
“Fossils are more than tales of ancient species; they reveal important changes and adaptations over time,” emphasized Professor Jasinski.
“Studying these specimens also offers clues to future ecological shifts and strategies for adaptation.”
The team’s findings are detailed in the journal Pals.
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K. Mahmoud et al. A brief description of Hyenodonta from mid to late Miocene deposits in Pakistan and the Indian subcontinent. Pals published online on April 16, 2026. doi: 10.1007/s12542-025-00766-5
Source: www.sci.news
