The Interatheriinae from the Late Oligocene of Mendoza (Argentina), with comments on some Deseadan Interatheriidae

VERA, BÁRBARA; CERDEÑO, ESPERANZA; REGUERO, MARCELO

Historical Biology

Taylor and Francis

Año: 2017 vol. 29 p. 607 - 626

0891-2963

This contribution discusses the interatheriids from Quebrada Fiera, a LateOligocene locality in the south of Mendoza Province. In addition, the taxonomic status of the Deseadan interatheres Plagiarthrus clivus, Argyrohyrax proavus, A. proavunculus, ?A. acuticostatus, Progaleopithecus fissurelatus, Pr. tournoueri, and Notohyrax conicus are discussed. We recognize in Quebrada Fiera Argyrohyrax proavus and Progaleopithecus sp. A possible third taxon is represented by one specimen that shows a combination of features that do not permit accurate assignment. These new remains, in combination with a systematic study of Deseadan interatheres, allow for a better definition of each recognized taxon,extended diagnoses, and clarification of some long-standing taxonomic misconceptions. Indeed, the priority of Argyrohyrax proavus over Plagiarthrus clivus is established, and the latter is proposed as a nomen dubium. Associated deciduous and permanent dentition and some limb bones provide new data on the ontogenetic variation and postcranial morphology of Argyrohyrax. Phylogenetic analysis supports the taxonomic determinations and places Argyrohyrax proavus in a basal position with respect to Archaeophylus or Progaleopithecus. Documented fossil records of Argyrohyrax and Progaleopithecus in Mendoza extend the known range to middle latitudes in central west Argentina; these taxa expand the list of mammals from Quebrada Fiera with Patagonian affinities.