dentichelis

Dentichelis is a genus of small, extinct mammals that lived during the late Paleocene and early Eocene epochs, approximately 58 to 48 million years ago. They are known from fossil remains found in North America, particularly in the Willwood Formation of Wyoming and the Green River Formation of Colorado. Dentichelis is characterized by its small size, typically measuring around 10-15 centimeters in length, and its distinctive dental structure. The genus is notable for its unique molar teeth, which feature a complex pattern of ridges and grooves that suggest a specialized diet. The exact nature of this diet remains a topic of ongoing research, but it is believed to have included a variety of plant materials. Dentichelis is considered a member of the order Multituberculata, a diverse group of mammals that evolved alongside the more familiar placentals and marsupials. The genus is represented by several species, including Dentichelis crassidens and Dentichelis minor. Despite their small size and relatively simple anatomy, Dentichelis fossils provide valuable insights into the early evolution of mammals and the diversity of life during the Paleogene period.