Paleontologists in Egypt have made a fascinating discovery: a nearly complete skull of a Hyaenodonta. This extinct predator once ruled African ecosystems and offers new insights into its evolution. The skull was found in the Fayum Depression, a rich fossil site that reveals secrets about life millions of years ago.
Named Bastetodon syrtos, this predator was about the size of a leopard. It likely hunted early elephants, hippopotamuses, and even our primate ancestors. Researchers published their findings in the Journal of Invertebrate Paleontology, highlighting how this creature fits into the story of hypercarnivores that flourished long before disappearing around the late Miocene.
Bastetodon syrtos belonged to an extinct group of mammals called Hyaenodonta. Despite sharing a name with modern hyenas, they are not closely related. Hyaenodonts had a unique diet, consuming at least 70 percent meat, which classifies them as hypercarnivores. Their powerful jaws and sharp teeth placed them at the top of the food chain in Oligocene Africa.
The Fayum Depression was a lush habitat filled with diverse life. Once a vibrant ecosystem, it now stands as a desert. The discovery of B. syrtos’ skull allows scientists to explore how these predators influenced the ancient food chain.
The find could have been missed entirely. The team, made up of researchers from Mansoura University and The American University in Cairo, was wrapping up their excavation when a keen-eyed member spotted large teeth protruding from the rock. This unexpected find was a big deal for vertebrate paleontologists. As Shorouq Al-Ashqar, the lead author, explained, it marked the start of something incredible.
This unexpected discovery enables scientists to reconsider fossils of related species, like Sekhmetops, which is named after the lion-headed Egyptian goddess. This connection deepens our understanding of these ancient predators.
Hyaenodonts thrived for millions of years, but they went extinct about 5 to 7 million years ago. Changes in climate and competition from new carnivores, such as feliforms (related to modern cats) and caniforms (related to dogs and bears), played a role in their decline. These emerging predators were more adaptable, using better hunting tactics and having greater stamina, which outcompeted Hyaenodonts.
The significance of finding Bastetodon syrtos cannot be overstated. It provides a valuable glimpse into the past, helping us understand the diversity and evolution of ancient predators. With this skull being one of the most complete ever found, researchers can unravel how these hunters shaped prehistoric ecosystems.
“This discovery is a major step in our understanding of hyaenodonts,” says Al-Ashqar. “We’re excited to continue researching how these fascinating creatures interacted with their environments across time and continents.”
