Ungulatomorpha

Ungulatomorpha is a clade of extinct mammals that lived during the Paleocene and Eocene epochs. The name itself, meaning "hoof-shaped forms," refers to the characteristic presence of hooves or hoof-like structures on the feet of many of its members. This group is significant in understanding early mammalian evolution, particularly the diversification of ungulates, the group that includes modern hoofed mammals like horses, cattle, and deer.

While the precise phylogenetic placement of Ungulatomorpha has been debated, they are generally considered to be a paraphyletic or polyphyletic assemblage of early ungulate-like mammals, rather than a direct monophyletic ancestor of all modern ungulates. Early members of this group often displayed a mosaic of primitive and advanced features. Their dentition, for example, varied, with some retaining more generalized shearing teeth while others began developing the grinding surfaces characteristic of herbivorous diets.

Fossil evidence of Ungulatomorpha has been found in various parts of the world, including North America and Asia. These fossils provide insights into the diets, locomotion, and evolutionary relationships of these ancient mammals. Their existence highlights a crucial period of adaptive radiation in mammals following the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event. The study of Ungulatomorpha continues to shed light on the origins of many familiar mammalian groups.