Ancient DNA shows North America's 'cheetah' was actually a puma relative
New ancient DNA analysis has revealed that Miracinonyx trumani, long thought to be closely related to cheetahs, is genetically closer to pumas. The extinct cat lived in North America during the Pleistocene epoch and displayed physical traits suggesting speed and agility. Scientists now believe its cheetah-like features were the result of convergent evolution rather than shared ancestry. The species also had the unusual ability to fish in colder environments. Low genetic diversity is believed to have played a significant role in its eventual extinction.
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