Description
Panthera tigris acutidens, commonly known as the Wanhsien tiger, is an extinct subspecies of tiger that was scientifically described in 1928 based on fossils excavated near Wanhsien in southern China’s Sichuan Province. Otto Zdansky named it Felis acutidens. This unique tiger subspecies displayed distinct characteristics that set it apart from its contemporary relatives.
Appearance
The Wanhsien tiger exhibited unique physical features that distinguished it from other tiger subspecies. While specific details of its appearance may be limited due to its extinction, the fossils and historical records suggest that it may have possessed distinct cranial and dental characteristics, setting it apart as a unique and fascinating member of the tiger family.
Distribution
Panthera tigris acutidens was known to have inhabited regions of southern China, particularly in the vicinity of Wanhsien in Sichuan Province. This subspecies may have had a limited distribution range, likely due to specific ecological and environmental factors that influenced its habitat preferences and population dynamics.
Habitat Preferences
The Wanhsien tiger likely thrived in diverse ecosystems within the southern Chinese region, potentially favoring forested areas and riverine habitats. Its survival and well-being were likely supported by the presence of suitable prey species and a balanced ecological environment that provided the necessary resources for its sustenance.
This detailed profile provides a comprehensive overview of the unique characteristics, appearance, distribution, and habitat preferences of Panthera tigris acutidens, shedding light on this fascinating and now-extinct tiger subspecies.
Facts About Panthera tigris acutidens
- Panthera tigris acutidens, also known as the Wanhsien tiger, is an extinct tiger subspecies.
- It was scientifically described in 1928 based on fossils excavated near Wanhsien, China.
- The Wanhsien tiger is the earliest known extinct tiger subspecies and populated a vast majority of Asia.
- This subspecies is larger than the Siberian tiger and grew to sizes of over 3 meters in length.
- It lived in China from the Late Pliocene to the Middle Pleistocene.
- The Wanhsien tiger had a short and broad head, characteristic of the tiger species.
- It was specialized for individual capture and killing of large prey.
- The population decline and extinction of Panthera tigris acutidens are attributed to various factors, including climate change and human activities.
- The Wanhsien tiger is an important subject of study for understanding the evolutionary history of tigers.
- Fossils and remains of Panthera tigris acutidens have provided valuable insights into the ancient ecosystems of Asia.