Palaeontologists working in the Eocene formations of the Gobi Altai have announced the discovery of a new mammalian species: Lutraformis magnus, or the Giant Arboreal Otter. Unlike modern semi-aquatic otters, this prehistoric relative possessed elongated limbs and specialized 'grasping' paws adapted for life in the dense tropical canopies that covered Mongolia millions of years ago.
The nearly complete skeleton reveals a creature the size of a modern leopard, with razor-sharp dental structures suited for a carnivorous diet. This finding provides critical evidence for the rapid diversification of mammalian lineages following the Eocene Thermal Maximum, showcasing a unique evolutionary path where mustelids conquered the treetops before moving to the water.