Macrauchenia patachonica is an extinct species of mammal that lived in South America during the Pleistocene, approximately between 7 million and 10,000 years ago. It belongs to the order Litopterna and shares morphological similarities with tapirs and horses, although its appearance is unique and distinctive.
This mammal is characterized by its unusual morphology, which easily defies classification. It had a large, elongated body, a long, thin neck, and column-shaped legs. Although its overall appearance resembles that of a camel with a long neck, it is not related to camels. The scientific name Macrauchenia is derived from Greek, meaning "long neck."
Macrauchenia occupied diverse habitats in South America, from plains and grasslands to forested areas. Its presence in the Argentine Pampa region is evidenced by fossils discovered in the mid-19th century.
Like many other Pleistocene megafauna, Macrauchenia patachonica became extinct at the end of that era. The exact causes of their extinction are a matter of debate, but factors such as climate changes, human pressure and catastrophic events have been suggested as possible explanations.
Approximate measurements of Macrauchenia:
This mammal is characterized by its unusual morphology, which easily defies classification. It had a large, elongated body, a long, thin neck, and column-shaped legs. Although its overall appearance resembles that of a camel with a long neck, it is not related to camels. The scientific name Macrauchenia is derived from Greek, meaning "long neck."
Macrauchenia occupied diverse habitats in South America, from plains and grasslands to forested areas. Its presence in the Argentine Pampa region is evidenced by fossils discovered in the mid-19th century.
Like many other Pleistocene megafauna, Macrauchenia patachonica became extinct at the end of that era. The exact causes of their extinction are a matter of debate, but factors such as climate changes, human pressure and catastrophic events have been suggested as possible explanations.
Approximate measurements of Macrauchenia:
- Scale 1:35
- Length 84mm
- Height 63mm
- Snout-tail base length 90 mm
- Scale 1:20
- Length 142mm
- Height 107mm
- Snout-tail base length 150 mm
