Borhyaeninae

Borhyaeninae is a subfamily of extinct mammals that lived during the Paleogene period, from the Paleocene to the Oligocene epochs, approximately 66 to 23 million years ago. They are known from fossils found in North America, Europe, and Asia. Borhyaeninae are characterized by their small to medium-sized body size, with some species reaching up to 1.5 meters in length. They had a diverse range of adaptations, including carnivorous, omnivorous, and possibly herbivorous diets.

The subfamily includes several genera, such as Borhyaena, Oxyaena, and Aelurodon. Borhyaena was one of the earliest members of the subfamily, with a skull similar to that of modern bears, but with more carnassial teeth. Oxyaena, on the other hand, had a more dog-like skull and was likely an omnivore. Aelurodon, the largest member of the subfamily, had a robust build and was likely a scavenger or opportunistic predator.

Borhyaeninae are thought to have gone extinct due to a combination of factors, including climate change, competition with other mammals, and the rise of modern carnivores. Despite their extinction, they played an important role in the evolution of mammals, contributing to the diversification of carnivorous and omnivorous species. Their fossils provide valuable insights into the paleoecology and evolution of mammals during the Paleogene period.