Felinae

Felinae is a subfamily within the family Felidae that encompasses most of the small- to medium-sized cats. In contrast to the Pantherinae, which contains the larger species such as lions, tigers, and leopards, Felinae includes cats like the domestic cat and many wild species. They occur across Africa, Eurasia, and the Americas.

Taxonomy within Felinae is complex and has been revised by molecular data. The group traditionally includes Felis, Lynx, Puma, Leopardus, Prionailurus, Acinonyx, Caracal, and Otocolobus, among others. Recent studies have reshaped these relationships and led to reclassifications of several genera.

Ecology and behavior: Felinae species range from small jungle cats to medium-sized predators like the puma and the cheetah. They are typically solitary, with diets that vary from small mammals to birds and larger prey. They inhabit forests, grasslands, deserts, and urban areas.

Evolution and distribution: The Felinae diverged from the Pantherinae during the Miocene. Today they are widely distributed in the Americas, Africa, and Eurasia, with the greatest species richness in tropical regions. Conservation concerns affect several Felinae species, driven by habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict.