Reassessing the phylogeny of Quaternary Eurasian Rhinocerotidae

Abstract

The phylogenetic relationships within Eurasian Quaternary rhinoceroses is reassessed for the first time by means of Bayesian analysis. The results show Stephanorhinus as a monophyletic clade, with Pliorhinus as a sister taxon and Coelodonta as their closest relative. A new scenario on the origin, evolution and paleobiogeography of Quaternary rhinoceroses is therefore provided. Stephanorhinus originated in the Mediterranean Basin, dispersing towards Eastern Eurasia during the Early Pleistocene and leading to S. kirchbergensis. S. hemitoechus probably originated in Europe.