Astrapotherium
Astrapotherium is an extinct genus of ungulate mammals that lived during the Oligocene and Miocene epochs in South America. Its name, meaning "lightning beast," refers to its powerful build and presumed swiftness. Astrapotherium was a relatively large animal, with some species reaching the size of a rhinoceros, though its exact appearance is subject to some interpretation. Fossil evidence suggests it had a stocky body, short legs, and a broad skull. A distinctive feature was its large, tusk-like upper incisors, which may have been used for display, defense, or foraging. Its diet likely consisted of vegetation, possibly including tough plants.
The classification of Astrapotherium has been a subject of debate among paleontologists. It belongs to the