Genetic study identifies extinct American cheetah as relative of modern puma

The short version

• A genomic study revealed that the extinct North American predator known as the American cheetah was actually a close relative of the modern puma rather than a true cheetah.[ScienceDaily]
• Researchers analyzed fossil remains dating back 23,000 to 31,000 years, establishing that the species split from the puma lineage roughly 2.6 million years ago.[ScienceDaily]
• The findings alter scientific understanding of the predator's evolutionary history and physical traits.[ScienceDaily]

Key facts

• The extinct American cheetah was a sister species to modern pumas rather than a true cheetah.[ScienceDaily]
• Miracinonyx trumani diverged from the modern puma lineage approximately 2.6 million years ago.[ScienceDaily]
• The study analyzed fossil genomes dated between 23,000 and 31,000 years old.[ScienceDaily]
• Adult specimens averaged approximately 150 pounds, measured 8 feet long, and stood around 3 feet tall.[ScienceDaily]
• The study was published on September 4 in Current Biology.[ScienceDaily]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.

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