ulostodon

Ulostodon is a genus of extinct, herbivorous mammal that lived during the late Miocene epoch, approximately 10.3 to 5.3 million years ago. It is known from fossils found in North America, particularly in the western United States. Ulostodon is notable for its large size, with some species reaching lengths of up to 10 meters (33 feet) and weighing over 10 tons. It is one of the largest known land mammals to have ever existed.

Ulostodon had a robust body, short limbs, and a long, low skull. Its teeth were adapted for grinding plant material, and it likely fed on a variety of vegetation, including grasses, shrubs, and trees. The genus is characterized by its distinctive, flat, and broad skull, which is unique among large herbivorous mammals.

The name "Ulostodon" comes from the Greek words "oulon," meaning "ox," and "odon," meaning "tooth," reflecting the genus' strong, ox-like appearance and robust dentition. Ulostodon is a member of the family Mylodontidae, which includes other large, extinct South American mammals such as Glyptodon and Toxodon.

Despite its large size, Ulostodon is not closely related to modern elephants or rhinoceroses. Instead, it is more closely related to the extinct ground sloths and armadillos. The genus is known from several species, including U. magnus, U. brevirostris, and U. andinus. Fossils of Ulostodon have been found in various geological formations, providing insights into the evolution and ecology of large herbivorous mammals during the Miocene epoch.