In a Bavarian clay pit, fossils have been unearthed revealing the coexistence of two distinct species of ancient apes in Europe. Among them is Buronius manfredschmidi, potentially the smallest great ape ever discovered outside of Africa. These findings mark a significant moment in ape evolution research, shedding light on the diversity of species that once roamed the continent.
The discovery of three fossils in the Danuvius sediment layer has led to the identification of Buronius manfredschmidi. The fossils, including a partial upper molar and a kneecap, provide insights into the physical characteristics of this ancient ape. With an estimated weight of only 10 kilograms, Buronius is believed to have been a small great ape, comparable in size to modern siamangs.
Despite the limited number of fossils, researchers have begun to piece together Buronius’ lifestyle. The thin enamel on the teeth suggests a diet of soft foods, while the unique features of the kneecap indicate adept climbing abilities. It is hypothesized that Buronius primarily consumed leaves and fruits from the treetops, showcasing a specialized diet and habitat.
Date: 2024-06-07 13:00:00
Source: www.sciencenews.org