New remains of an insular rabbit (Hypolagus balearicus) from Balearic Islands

What is it about?

New bones of Hypolagus balearicus are described from Eivissa (Balearic Islands). A weight of 1,3 to 2,7 is predicted with these new remains. It shows characteristic traits in front of extant rabbits and hares (short cranium, smaller orbits, particular elbow dimensions in relation to the humerus, robustness of ulna and others). This particular morphology would be consequence of: 1) it is an insular rabbit, or 2) adaptations to a particular ecosystem.

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Why is it important?

Few remains are previously known about H. balearicus. With this paper, the material is enlarged substantially. The bones are meticulously described for futur comparisons. It is surprising for its particular morphology in front of extant species.