Proictis

Proictis is a genus of extinct toothed whales belonging to the family Physeteroidea. These archaic sperm whales lived during the Miocene epoch, approximately 23 to 5 million years ago. Fossils of Proictis have been discovered in various locations, including North America and Europe. The genus is distinguished by several unique anatomical features, particularly in its skull and dentition. Unlike modern sperm whales, Proictis had a more symmetrical skull and a different arrangement of teeth. Its teeth were typically conical and relatively large, suggesting a predatory diet, likely consisting of fish and squid.

The discovery of Proictis has provided valuable insights into the evolutionary history of the sperm whale lineage. It represents an intermediate stage in the development of the specialized cranial structures seen in modern Physeteroidea, such as the large melon responsible for echolocation. Studying Proictis helps paleontologists understand the diversification and adaptations that occurred within this group of cetaceans as they transitioned from terrestrial ancestors to fully marine mammals. The precise phylogenetic relationships of Proictis to other Miocene toothed whales are still a subject of ongoing research.