Leptotragulus

Leptotragulus
Temporal range: Middle Eocene
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Artiodactyla
Family: Protoceratidae
Genus: Leptotragulus
Scott & Osborn, 1887
Species
  • L. clarki Gazin, 1955
  • L. medius Peterson, 1919
  • L. proavus Scott & Osborn 1887
  • L. ultimus Schlaikjer, 1935
Range of Leptotragulus based on fossil record

Leptotragulus is an extinct genus of protoceratid, endemic to North America. It lived during the Middle Eocene epoch (Uintan to Chadronian stage) 40.2—33.9 Ma, existing for approximately 6 million years.[1]

Leptotragulus resembled deer. However, they were more closely related to camelids. In addition to having horns in the more usual place,[clarification needed] many protoceratids had additional, rostral horns above the orbital cavity. This genus, as well as many other Leptotragulines, was completely hornlees.

Fossil distribution[edit]

Fossils have been recovered from:

References[edit]