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Comments on the Systematics and Classification of the Beavers (Rodentia, Castoridae)

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Abstract

The systematics of the beavers (Castoridae) are reviewed and definitions are presented for each subfamilial group. Four subfamilies are recognized: primitive Agnotocastorinae (divided into two tribes, Agnotocastorini and Anchitheriomyini); burrowing beavers, Palaeocastorinae; giant beavers, Castoroidinae (containing two tribes, Castoroidini and Trogontheriini); and the Castorinae. The agnotocastorines are viewed as the ancestral group for all later subfamilies. The Palaeocastorinae is viewed as a side-branch, not ancestral or closely related to any of the later subfamilies. The Castorinae and Castoroidinae may represent a distinct clade united by dental features.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Rochester Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology, 265 Carling Road, Rochester, New York, 14610

    William W. Korth

  2. Department of Earth Science and Science Education, Buffalo State College, Buffalo, New York, 14222

    William W. Korth

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  1. William W. Korth
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Correspondence to William W. Korth.

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Korth, W.W. Comments on the Systematics and Classification of the Beavers (Rodentia, Castoridae). Journal of Mammalian Evolution 8, 279–296 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1014468732231

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1014468732231

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