Acta Zoologica Cracoviensia, 41(1) 1998

Issue:

VOL 41(1) 1998

Keywords:

Fossil, mammal, Necrolemur, stapedial canal

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A possible omomyid (Primates: Omomyidae) periotic bone from the Eocene deposits at Hordle, Hampshire

• Christopher A. NORRIS
• David L. HARRISON

Abstract:

An isolated primate periotic bone is reported from the Upper Eocene deposits at Hordle, Hampshire. The fragmentary nature of the specimen makes definitive identifica­tion problematic. However, similarities to specimens of the omomyid genus Necrolemur suggest a possible omomyid identity. This is supported by the close association of the specimen with a number of well-preserved molars from Microchoerus erinaceus, a rela­tively abundant species in the Hordle deposits. However, the specimen exhibits a number of differences to the accepted omomyid morphology, most notably in the dimensions of the stapedial canal, which is wider than that of the promontorium canal.