First mammal fossil locality from the late Miocene of Zagros, western Iran

Abstract

A new and the first mammal fossil locality from the Zagros Basin of Iran is reported here. The fossil locality, known as Dimeh, is located in the Lorestan province, west of Iran. The fauna includes abundant bovid cranial remains, mostly representing boselaphines and palaeoryxoids, as well as gazelles and spiral horned antelopes. Hipparionine horses similar to Hippotherium group are also represented by many individuals and specimens. In addition, large giraffids are among the common elements. Rhinocerotidae, Proboscidea and hyaenids are also present. Based on the current assessment of this fauna, it is most similar to the Middle Maragheh biostratigraphic levels in northwest Iran. Hence, an age of 8-7 Ma (MN 11-12 equivalent) can be assigned for this assemblage. This new fauna is comparable to the Pikermian-type mammal palaeocommunities of the late Miocene and may indicate an extension of these faunas toward Zagros high lands in pursuit of seasonal precipitation and vegetation.