A new extinct New Zealand dolphin with tusk-like teeth

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2023-06-14 09:01

New Zealand

Reconstruction of Nihohae matakoi in New Zealand's Oligocene oceans, pursuing a shoal of squid." Art by Daniel Verhelst

Scientists have discovered a new extinct New Zealand dolphin species with unique tusk-like teeth unlike any seen in today’s dolphins or whales. The near-complete fossilised skull, found in North Otago in 1998, shows teeth that were horizontally positioned at the tip of the mouth. These were likely used for swift and powerful attacks on small prey, stunning and injuring them before consumption. The new species, named Nihohae matakoi, offers a glimpse into the amazing diversity of ancient dolphin species and their incredible adaptations for hunting and survival.

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Reconstruction of Nihohae matakoi

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Research The Royal Society, Web page

Journal/
conference: Proceedings of the Royal Society B

Research:Paper

Organisation/s: University of Otago

Funder: Field work was funded by grants to R.E.F. by National Geographic Society Grants 4341-90 & 5381-94. Preparation by S. White and A. Grebneff was supported by University of Otago Research Grants to R.E.F. Support for this research was provided by a University of Otago Ph.D. Scholarship to A.C. as well as a Royal Society of New Zealand Marsden grant (18-UOO-036) to R.E.F

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