Oldest Tasmanian Tiger Ancestors Unearthed in Australia

Fossils of three new species dating back 25-23 million years shed light on the evolutionary history of the thylacine.

• Scientists unearthed three new thylacine species from Queensland's Riversleigh World Heritage Area.
• These species are the oldest known ancestors of the Tasmanian tiger, dating back 25-23 million years.
• The discovery highlights the rapid diversification of carnivorous marsupials in ancient Australia.
• The largest species, Badjcinus timfaulkneri, had powerful bone-crushing jaws.
• The findings challenge the notion that reptilian carnivores dominated ancient Australia.

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