Bony labyrinth morphology clarifies the origin and evolution of deer

摘要: Deer are an iconic group of large mammals that originated in the Early Miocene Eurasia (ca. 19 Ma). While there is some consensus on key relationships among their members, basis molecular- or morphology-based analyses, combined approaches, many questions remain, and bony labyrinth has shown considerable potential for phylogenetics this other groups. Here we examine its shape 29 species living fossil deer using 3D geometric morphometrics cladistics. We clarify several issues origin evolution cervids. Our results give new age estimates at different nodes tree provide first time a clear distinction stem crown Cervidae. unambiguously attribute Euprox furcatus (13.8 Ma) to Cervidae, pushing back (at least) 4 Ma. Furthermore, show Capreolinae more variable than Cervinae confirm monophyly Old World (including Chinese water Hydropotes) based morphological characters only. Finally, evidence support sister relationship Megaloceros giganteus with fallow Dama.