Phylogeny and classification of early European Mustelida (Mammalia: Carnivora)

Abstract

A phylogenetic analysis of the Oligocene and some neogene European arctoid carnivorans of the order-group taxon Mustelida is performed, based on characters of the skull and dentition. Revised classification of certain genera is proposed. Phylogenetic definitions and diagnoses are provided for the suprageneric taxa: Carnivora, Caniformia, Arctoidea, Arctomorpha (new), Mustelida, Pinnipedia, Procyonidae, Mustelidae, and Mustelinae -from Author