Seorsumuscardinus

Seorsumuscardinus: A Fossil Dormouse with a Distinctive Past

Imagine stepping back in time to the early Miocene period, when Europe was home to a unique species of dormice. These creatures, known as Seorsumuscardinus, have left behind only their teeth, but what stories they could tell! Let’s dive into the fascinating world of this ancient rodent.

Who Are Seorsumuscardinus?

Seorsumuscardinus is a genus of fossil dormice that roamed Europe during the early Miocene. It’s like stepping into a prehistoric zoo, where you can only see their teeth! This might sound a bit strange, but these teeth are incredibly important for understanding the lives and habits of these ancient creatures.

Meet S. alpinus and S. bolligeri

There are two species in this genus: S. alpinus and S. bolligeri. These names might sound like a mix of Latin and Swiss cheese, but they’re actually honoring the work of scientists who made significant contributions to our understanding of these dormice.

The Teeth Tell the Tale

Seorsumuscardinus is known only through its cheek teeth. These teeth are medium-sized and have a flat occlusal surface, much like the worn-down smiles of old friends. The upper premolar (P4) has four main crests, with an additional small crest in S. bolligeri. It’s like finding hidden treasures in these ancient teeth!

Upper Dentition: A Closer Look

The upper premolar (P4) is two-rooted in S. alpinus and three-rooted in S. bolligeri. The first upper molar (M1) has five main transverse crests, while the second upper molar (M2) is less rounded than M1, with additional small crests. These differences are like finding unique fingerprints among ancient fossils.

Lower Dentition: More Secrets

The lower dentition of Seorsumuscardinus is equally intriguing. The fourth lower premolar (p4) has four ridges, with the front and back pair connected at the lingual side in some specimens. The first lower molar (m1) bears four main crests and a smaller one between the two crests at the back. An additional crest (the anterotropid) is present in S. alpinus, but not in S. bolligeri.

Range and Distribution

Seorsumuscardinus has been recorded from several locations, including Oberdorf, Austria; Karydia, Greece; Tägernaustrasse, Switzerland; and Affalterbach, Germany (MN 5 locality). These places are like the chapters in a storybook of ancient Europe, each with its own unique tale to tell.

Temporal Distinctions

The distributions of S. alpinus and S. bolligeri are temporally distinct, meaning they lived in different time periods within the Miocene epoch. This is like finding two different versions of a story, each with its own unique plot.

Comparisons and Classifications

Seorsumuscardinus occurred at the same time as the oldest known Muscardinus, which adds another layer to our understanding of dormice evolution. Comparisons made by scientists like Prieto and Böhme have shed light on these ancient creatures, making them more than just fossils—they’re pieces of a puzzle that helps us understand the past.

A Final Thought

Seorsumuscardinus may be long gone, but their legacy lives on through the study of their teeth. These ancient dormice remind us of the rich history and diversity of life that once thrived in Europe. As we continue to uncover more about these creatures, we’re not just piecing together a puzzle—we’re rewriting the story of our planet’s past.