Palaeoloxodon

Palaeoloxodon is an extinct genus of elephant that lived in Eurasia and Africa during the Pleistocene epoch. The name Palaeoloxodon translates to "ancient tusk elephant." These elephants are known for their massive size, with some species estimated to have reached heights of over 4 meters (13 feet) at the shoulder, making them among the largest land mammals ever to have lived.

Distinguishing features of Palaeoloxodon include their relatively straight tusks, which often lacked the pronounced curvature seen in modern elephants. They also possessed a distinctive cranial dome, a high-domed skull that is a characteristic feature of the genus. Their teeth were adapted for grinding tough vegetation, suggesting a herbivorous diet.

The genus Palaeoloxodon is characterized by a wide geographic distribution and temporal range. Fossils have been found across a broad swathe of Eurasia, from Europe to East Asia, and also in parts of Africa. Different species of Palaeoloxodon adapted to various environments, including grasslands, savannas, and more arid regions.

The evolutionary relationships of Palaeoloxodon are complex and have been the subject of ongoing research. It is generally considered part of the elephant family Elephantidae. The extinction of Palaeoloxodon is thought to have occurred towards the end of the Pleistocene, possibly due to climate change, habitat alteration, or competition with other herbivores. Their disappearance marked the end of a significant lineage of giant elephants.