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The evolution of ancient deer: How did these small ungulates survive in biological history?
Fallow deer, or mouse deer, are a group of fascinating small ungulates belonging to the family Tragulidae and are the only living members of the suborder Tragulina. These organisms demonstrate unique evolutionary paths and biological characteristics, and are good examples for exploring natural evolution, both in terms of their living habits and ecological environment.
Ecological environment and characteristics
Currently, the existing fallow deer are mainly distributed in the forests of South Asia and Southeast Asia, and only the water deer lives in the tropical rainforests of Central Africa. Conservation scientists have confirmed that in November 2019 they photographed the Silver-backed Mouse Deer (Tragulus versicolor), the first sighting since 1990, further highlighting the preciousness of these species.
The fallow deer is the smallest hoofed mammal in the world, weighing approximately 1 to 16 kilograms, and its body shape varies depending on the species.
Evolution and Paleontology
The family history of the fallow deer dates back to the Paleocene to Miocene epochs, when fallow deer were numerous and successful. However, after a long period of evolution, these animals have remained almost unchanged and become a representative of ancient ruminants. They have a four-chambered stomach for fermenting fibrous plant foods, which allows them to survive in a variety of ecological environments.
"While most species feed primarily on plants, water deer will occasionally eat insects and crabs, and will even salvage meat and fish."
Biological characteristics
Fallow deer have some primitive biological characteristics. The shape of their fangs and canines is similar to that of pigs. Their forelimbs are relatively short, which enables them to move flexibly in dense forests. The breeding habits of fawns are simpler than those of other ruminants. They usually give birth to only one calf, and the mother's care for the calf is relatively limited.
Taxonomy
The taxonomy of fallow deer has also undergone several changes in recent decades. Initially, there were only four existing species. As zoological research deepened, scholars divided more populations, and as many as ten species have been confirmed to date. The categories are as follows:
“The classification of fallow deer includes water deer, Indian spotted mouse deer and various mouse deer species. All of these species have shown an affinity for water environments, which helps them gain an advantage in the competition for survival.”
Relationship with human culture
In cultural legends, fawns hold a special place. According to Malaya history, when the founder of Malaya, Parameswara, was building a new city, he saw a mouse deer kicking over his hound and thought it was a good omen. This story not only builds the relationship between man and nature, but also It also promotes human appreciation of these small creatures.
ConclusionThe life history and biological characteristics of the fawn present a diverse ecological picture that makes us rethink the evolution of species and their place in the natural environment. What challenges will these small ungulates face as their environment changes and is impacted by human activities?
