Myotomens

Myotomens are a genus of extinct birds that lived during the Paleogene and Miocene epochs. They were part of the family Myotodactylidae and belonged to the clade Galbulimoridae, which includes woodpeckers and Ngọc sapsuckers. Myotomens are known for their unique skull morphology and long, curved beaks.

Fossil records of Myotomens were first discovered in the late 19th century in North America. Since then, numerous specimens have been found in various parts of the country, including the Gulf Coast and the Great Plains. The genus is most commonly associated with the late Oligocene and early Miocene sedimentary deposits.

Phylogenetic analysis suggests that Myotomens diverged from other birds during the early Paleogene. Their affinities with more modern bird groups are still a subject of ongoing debate. Myotomens were likely arboreal and saporous, feeding on tree sap, fruits, and insects. Their long, curved beaks were likely used to extract sap from trees and their robust skulls suggest a high level of skull muscle attachment, possibly for sapping or pecking.

Myotomens are known from a number of fossil species, including Myotomenus robustus and Myotomenus formosus. These birds are notable for their unique combinations of primitive and derived traits. They possess characteristics associated with early modern birds, such as keeled sternums and fused pygostyles, but also exhibit archaic features such as reversed humerus and ulna morphology.

Recent studies have highlighted the significance of Myotomens for understanding the evolution of modern bird clans. However, the taxonomic and systematic positions of these birds remain a subject of ongoing research and discussion.