‘Balloon head’ dolphin

New information about ancient cetaceans: a recent study identified an ancient dolphin characterised by a short, spoon-shaped high nose and a balloon-shaped forehead.

Platalearostrum hoekmani is its name: it lived 2-3 million years ago.

Only a bone has been found, but researchers are convinced they have discovered a new species, whose closest living relative is the pilot whale.

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Drawing: how Platalearostrum hoekmani probably looked, by R. Bakker / Manimal Works

For more information:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-11673924