Produced by the Population Genetics and Evolution class, Furman University

The Neogene: Borophagus
Borophagus were vicious organisms that closely resembled canids (dogs) that we see today. Fossil records indicate that they grew to almost a meter in length by the time they matured into adults (AA 2010). Scientists believe that they lived and hunted in packs, which would allow for greater individual protection and reproductive success (Eaton 2001). This pack-dwelling habit could be significant evolutionarily, because it correlates with communal lifestyle that many mammals today demonstrate, including most members of the dog family. Borophagus were probably carnivores that mainly scavenged for remains of other dead animals because of their relatively small body size (AA 2010). The most distinguishing feature that Borophagus had was their large canine teeth that allowed them to tear meat and flesh off of their prey. Evidence from their skulls indicate that Borophagus could close their jaws with enough force to snap bones because their shortened lower jaws had a large amount of muscle attachment; they also had specialized teeth which allowed them to masticate and process food with greater efficiency (NPS 1994). Due to shared traits, Borophagus could be the early ancestors of today’s canids.

Page by Pete Calomiris
Borophagus. Picture From: The National Park Service.

Absolute Astronomy. 1999. Borophagus. AbsoluteAstronomy.com. Accessed April 2010.

Eaton J. 2001. Mastodons in our midst. BayNature.org. Accessed April 2010.

National Park Service. 1994. Hyena-like Dogs. The Fossil Record. Accessed April 2010.