Ancient mitogenomes reveal unexpected diversity in Madagascar's extinct hippopotamuses
Alexander T. Salis, Evon R. Hekkala, Laurie R. Godfrey, David A. Burney, Zachary T. Calamari, Anthony Caragiulo, Noromamy J. Rahantaharivao, Lovasoa Ranivoharimanana, Harimanjaka A. M. Rasolonjatovo, Brian Tilston Smith, John Gatesy, Christopher J. Raxworthy, John J. Flynn
This study uses ancient mitochondrial genomes from Malagasy hippos to reveal unexpected diversity and a complex diversification history, challenging traditional taxonomy and showing a recent radiation of large-bodied island mammals.
bioRxiv · Oct 7, 2026 · PreprintEvolutionary Biology