Discovery of the Most Complete Horse Fossil in the Americas

The video explores the history of horses in the Americas, highlighting the discovery of an ancient horse fossil, Equus emihippus, in Arequipa, Peru. It discusses the excavation process, the characteristics of the Equus Santiolene, and the historical context of horse extinction in South America. The research provides insights into the ancient fauna of the region, challenging the belief that horses were introduced by the Spanish.

What significant discovery did the Department of Palaeontology make in Arequipa, Peru?

• A new species of bird

• A rare type of plant fossil

• A preserved horse skeleton

• An ancient human settlement

What is one of the main challenges faced by paleontologists when excavating fossils in Arequipa?

• Dealing with extreme weather conditions

• Navigating through dense forests

• Avoiding dangerous wildlife

• Liberating ancient bones from solid rock

How do the new fossil specimens contribute to our understanding of ancient South American fauna?

• They provide insights into ancient plant life

• They reveal the diet of ancient humans

• They enhance knowledge about extinct species

• They show the migration patterns of birds

Compared to modern horses, what was a notable feature of the Equus Santiolene?

• It had a smaller head

• It had longer legs

• It was unable to gallop

• It had a thick neck

How did horses originally arrive in South America?

• They migrated across the Isthmus of Panama

• They were transported by ancient humans

• They were brought by European settlers

• They evolved independently in South America