What conflicting structural feature suggested early anatomists might place *Macrauchenia* within the Perissodactyla order?
Answer
The structure of its feet having three digits bearing hooves
The reduction of its toes to three digits bearing hooves presented a structural similarity to the Perissodactyla (odd-toed ungulates), contrasting with the camel-like head.
Related Questions
Which concept explains why similar features like hooves evolved independently in disparate groups like *Macrauchenia* and horses?Which physical trait initially led scientists to group *Macrauchenia* with the Camelidae family?What definitive order is *Macrauchenia* firmly established as belonging to?What evidence provided the resolution to the long-standing classification puzzle of *Macrauchenia*?According to the modern genetic consensus, which group contains *Macrauchenia's* closest living relatives?Which ancient South American event led to the extinction of *Macrauchenia* around 10,000 years ago?Which three modern families comprise the order identified as the closest living relatives of *Macrauchenia*?During which geological epochs did *Macrauchenia* roam the plains of South America?What conflicting structural feature suggested early anatomists might place *Macrauchenia* within the Perissodactyla order?What ecological role did South American isolation allow endemic ungulates like *Macrauchenia* to fill in contrast to other continents?