Desmostylus Fossils For Sale

Desmostylus was a unique, extinct marine mammal that belonged to the order Desmostylia, a rare group of herbivorous mammals that lived from the late Oligocene to the late Miocene epoch, around 30 to 7 million years ago. Desmostylus and its relatives are notable for being the only known order of marine mammals that relied exclusively on four-legged, amphibious locomotion, with characteristics that set them apart from other marine mammals like whales, dolphins, and sirenians (manatees and dugongs).

Key Characteristics

5 Items ($395 to $395)

Fossil Desmostylus (Hippo-Like Animal) Molar - California #241183

2" Fossil Desmostylus (Hippo-Like Animal) Molar - California

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Two Desmostylus Molars (Hippo-Like Animal) In Rock - California

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Desmostylus Molar (Hippo-Like Animal) - California #92914

2" Desmostylus Molar (Hippo-Like Animal) - California

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Rare Desmostylus Tooth (Hippo Like Animal)

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Fossil Desmostylus (Hippo-Like Animal) Molar - California #241171

1.3" Fossil Desmostylus (Hippo-Like Animal) Molar - California

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Key Characteristics Of Desmostylus

Artists reconstruction of Desmostylus. By Dmitry Bogdanov

Robust Body and Unique Appearance: Desmostylus had a stout, muscular body with short, sturdy limbs adapted for a semi-aquatic lifestyle. Its body shape was somewhat similar to that of a hippopotamus, with a broad torso and robust limbs, but it had features that were unlike any modern mammal.

Dental Structure: One of the most defining characteristics of Desmostylus is its unusual teeth. Unlike most mammals, its teeth were peg-like and arranged in a line, with cylindrical, column-shaped molars that gave it its name (from the Greek “desmo” for “bundle” and “stylos” for “pillar”). This unique dentition was well-suited for grinding tough, abrasive vegetation, suggesting it fed primarily on aquatic plants along coastlines and river mouths.

Aquatic Adaptations: While Desmostylus was capable of moving on land, its limb and skeletal structure indicate it was better suited for an aquatic lifestyle. It likely spent much of its time in shallow waters, foraging along the seafloor or in marshy areas. Its limbs were likely used to paddle through the water, while its muscular body helped it navigate shallow, coastal environments.

Habitat and Distribution: Fossils of Desmostylus have been found along the Pacific Rim, with discoveries in regions like Japan, Alaska, California, and Mexico. This distribution suggests it lived in coastal environments around the North Pacific Ocean, where it inhabited shallow marine and estuarine ecosystems rich in vegetation.

Paleobiology and Behavior: Based on its anatomy, Desmostylus is thought to have been a slow-moving grazer, similar to modern-day manatees. It likely fed on seagrasses, algae, and other soft aquatic vegetation, possibly rooting around the seafloor to access food. Its unique dental structure would have been effective for crushing and grinding tough plant material.

Evolutionary Significance: Desmostylus and other desmostylians are the only known marine mammals that evolved a quadrupedal, amphibious lifestyle. This makes them a highly specialized and distinct lineage within marine mammals. Their closest evolutionary relatives are likely other large, herbivorous placental mammals, though their exact position in the mammalian family tree remains uncertain due to their unique adaptations and lack of close modern relatives.

Extinction: Desmostylus went extinct by the late Miocene, around 7 million years ago. The reasons for their extinction are unclear, but changing climates, habitat loss, and competition with other marine herbivores like sirenians may have contributed to their decline.

DESMOSTYLUS FOSSILS FOR SALE

Key Characteristics Of Desmostylus