The porcupine Hystrix parvae (Kretzoi, 1951) from the Late Miocene (Turolian, MN11) of Kohfidisch in Austria

Abstract

This paper provides an upgrade of Hystrix parvae, which so far is the smallest and oldest extinct species of Hystrix s. str. The new data derive from the exceptionally rich new fossil collection of the locality Kohfidisch in Austria, that comprises more than 100 fossils. The detailed descriptions are supported by enamel microstructure analysis of incisors, and x-ray microcomputed images (microCT) of the partial skull, upper and lower jaws and teeth. The tooth pattern and sizes show wide ranges, depending on the ontogenetic stage, tooth position and stage of wear. The deciduous D4/d4 and the permanent lower p4-m3 are identified as low crowned or brachydont. The mean hypsodonty index of m1/2 is 69%. The permanent upper P4-M3 are brachydont to mesodont. The mean hypsodonty index of M1/2 is 114%. The karstic cave and fissure system of Kohfidisch provided an ideal nursery environment as evidenced by numerous deciduous teeth in different ontogenetic stages. The age of the fauna is Late Miocene (lower Turolian, MN11), around 8.6 million years.