Proterix

Proterix is an extinct genus of hedgehog-like insectivore from the Late Oligocene to the Early Miocene of North America.[1]

Proterix
Temporal range: Late Oligocene–Early Miocene
Scientific classification
Kingdom:
Animalia
Phylum:
Chordata
Class:
Mammalia
Order:
Eulipotyphla
Family:
Erinaceidae
Genus:
†Proterix

Matthew, 1903
Species

†P. bicuspis
†P. loomisi

Description

Proterix was an armor-headed burrowing insectivore. Although it was speculated to be limbless in a popular science book,[1] very little of the post-cranial skeleton has been found, which is typical for mammals.[2][3] The original reference suggests reduced limbs may be possible, due to the unusually high number of lumbar vertebrae, but cautions that conclusions must be reserved until a complete skeleton is found.[3]

References
  1. Dixon, Dougal (2008). World Encyclopedia of Dinosaurs & Prehistoric Creatures. New York: Lorenz Books. p. 447. ISBN 9780754817307.
  2. Gawne, CE. "The genus Proterix (Insectivora, Erinaceidae) of the Upper Oligocene of North America". American Museum Novitates. 2315. Retrieved 19 January 2013.
  3. Smith, G.R.; Friedland, N.E., eds. (1975). "Studies on Cenozoic Paleontology and Stratigraphy" (PDF). Retrieved 19 January 2013. Cite journal requires |journal= (help)
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