Note on the taxonomy of the Pleistocene sabre-tooth felid Homotherium (Mammalia, Carnivora, Machairodontinae)

Abstract

The specific nomenclature of the Pleistocene sabre-toothed felid Homotherium in the northern hemisphere has been a matter of contention for over a century up till the present day. Its correct taxonomy and systematics have, however, implications for our understanding of evolutionary patterns and biogeography of the genus. Here, we briefly review the literature and conclude that there existed only one intra-specifically variable species, to be called Homotherium latidens (Owen, 1846). It has priority over the name H. crenatidens (Fabrini, 1890). H. latidens had a wide distribution in time and space, i.e. the Early, Middle and Late Pleistocene and the northern hemisphere (Eurasia and North America). The large intra-specific morphological variation over time does not exceed that of a single population of large felines showing sexual dimorphism, supporting the long-term survival of a single species of feline top predator.