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Suid evolution and correlation of African hominid localities

Science. 1977 Oct 7;198(4312):13-21. doi: 10.1126/science.331477.

Abstract

Recently discovered Plio-Pleistocene vertebrate assemblages have allowed complete systematic revision of the sub-Saharan African Suidae. New phylogenies are proposed for the 7 genera and 16 species of fossil and extant representatives. Suids are common elements of African Plio-Pleistocene faunas, and their evolutionary trends, particularly in the species Mesochoerus limnetes and Metridiochoerus andrewsi, are of great correlative value. Suid data are employed in a refinement of stratigraphic correlations at Omo Shungura, Olduvai, and east of Lake Turkana (formerly East Rudolf) and in a correlation of East African and South African sites, with important implications for interpretation of hominid evolution. The suid record also bears significantly on questions of theoretical evolutionary biology.

Publication types

  • Historical Article
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Africa
  • Animals
  • Artiodactyla*
  • Biological Evolution*
  • Dentition
  • Fossils*
  • Geology
  • History, Ancient
  • Humans
  • Molar
  • Paleodontology
  • Paleontology*
  • Phylogeny