What specific morphological trait concerning tusks historically separated the *Mammuthus* genus before genetic confirmation?
Answer
Tusks curved outward and then backward
Before the detailed confirmation provided by modern genetic analyses, paleontologists relied on distinct physical characteristics to classify ancient fauna. A notable morphological trait used historically to separate the *Mammuthus* genus, and often *M. primigenius* specifically, was the unique way its tusks were shaped. These tusks exhibited a distinctive curve: projecting outward initially and then curving backward. This morphology provided a visual differentiator when comparing remains against other proboscideans whose tusks might have been straighter or curved differently.
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