Paromomys maturus


Paromomys maturus had a body mass around 312 grams (Fleagle, 1999). This species had a dental formula of 2:1:3:3 on the lower jaw (Conroy, 1990). This species had long, slender lower incisors (Fleagle, 1999). This species has a posterior lower premolar that is tall and pointed (Fleagle, 1999). The lower molars were relatively flat and low-crowned and had trigonids that were short and squared and talonid basins that were shallow and broad (Fleagle, 1999). The upper molars of this species were square with expanded basins (Fleagle, 1999). The posterior molars of the lower and upper jaw were elongated (Fleagle, 1999).

Paromomys maturus was found in North America during the middle Paleocene epoch (Fleagle, 1999).

Based on the morphology of the teeth this species had a herbivorous diet that included gum and nectar (Fleagle, 1999), although Conroy (1990) suggests that the diet of this species was predominately insectivorous.


Fleagle, J.G. 1999. Primate Adaptation and Evolution. Academic Press: San Diego.

Last updated: June 22, 2005
