Wikipedia

Perucetus

extinct genus of primitive whale from the Eocene of Peru

Perucetus is an extinct genus of large whale from the Eocene of what is now Peru. One species is known, P. colossus. This giant is about 17–20 meters (56–66 ft) long.[source?] Some scientists think the Perucetus rivaled or exceeded a blue whale, while others say it's lighter.[1]

Life reconstruction

It was discovered in a Peruvian desert.[2]

Naming

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The genus name Perucetus is a combination of the country Peru and cetus, while the species name colossus refers to its large size.[3]

References

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  1. ↑ "Researchers Dispute Claim That Ancient Whale Was Heaviest Animal Ever, NYT".
  2. ↑ "The heaviest animal ever? Massive whale that lived 40 million years ago found in desert, NBC News".
  3. ↑ "A heavyweight early whale pushes the boundaries of vertebrate morphology, Nature".

Other websites

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