Entelodon

/ˌɛn.təˈloʊ.dɑn/ noun

Definition

An extinct pig-like mammal from the Oligocene epoch with a large head and powerful jaw muscles.

Etymology

From Greek 'enteles' (perfect, complete) and 'odous' (tooth), combining to describe the complete dentition of these animals. The term was coined in the 19th century to name this fossil species discovered in North America and Europe.

Kelly Says

Entelodonts were sometimes called 'killer pigs' and were apex predators of their time, despite being related to modern pigs—a reminder that ancient relatives of today's animals could be completely different in lifestyle and size.

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