Geographic distribution of an extinct equid (Equus hydruntinus: Mammalia, Equidae) revealed by morphological and genetical analyses of fossils.

Abstract in brief

• The study combines morphological and genetic analyses to understand the evolutionary relationships and geographic distribution of the extinct horse species Equus hydruntinus, which lived in Europe and the Middle East for over 300,000 years.
• DNA evidence from samples in Crimea and Iran shows a close relationship between E. hydruntinus and Equus hemionus (hemiones), suggesting they are more closely related than previously thought, and challenging the reliance on tooth morphology alone for classification.
• The genetic data also indicates that E. hydruntinus was present further east than previously believed, extending its range into Iran, and highlights that dental features alone may not be sufficient for accurate taxonomy of ancient equids.]