|
Propoecilogale
''Propoecilogale'' is an extinct genus of mustelid that lived in Africa from the Early Pliocene to Early Pleistocene epochs, about 3.85–1.30 million years ago. The Type species, type and only named species, ''Propoecilogale bolti'', was originally named as a species of ''Ictonyx'' in 1985. Two years later, it was determined that this species belongs in its own separate genus. Though the Generic name (biology), generic name has been spelled as ''Prepoecilogale'' in some publications, this spelling is considered a ''nomen nudum'' (published without an adequate description) and thus is invalid. The first known specimen, a nearly complete fossilized skull, was discovered between 1947 and 1948 in Pit 10 of Bolt's Farm, South Africa, which is referenced in the animal's Specific name (zoology), specific name. Because its fossilized remains bear great resemblance to the bones of the extant African striped weasel, ''Propoecilogale'' is believed to be very closely related to this animal, ... [...More Info...] [...Related Items...] OR: [Wikipedia] [Google] [Baidu] |
African Striped Weasel
The African striped weasel (''Poecilogale albinucha''), also known as the white-naped weasel, striped weasel or African weasel, is a small mammal native to sub-Saharan Africa, where its range stretches from as far north as Kenya down south to South Africa. It belongs in the family Mustelidae and is the monotypic, lone member of the genus ''Poecilogale'', which was named in 1883 by Oldfield Thomas. It has a long, slender body with short legs and a bushy tail. One of the smallest carnivorans in Africa, it measures long excluding the tail, with males generally growing larger than females. It has black fur over most of its body, with distinctive white bands running from the top of its head down the length of its back, with the tail being completely white. Genetic analysis has revealed that the closest living relative of this species is the striped polecat, and a prehistoric animal named ''Propoecilogale bolti'' known from fossils may be the ancestor of the African striped weasel. Oc ... [...More Info...] [...Related Items...] OR: [Wikipedia] [Google] [Baidu] |
