The family Eupleridae is a group of carnivores from Madagascar, and there are 8 known species in 7 different genera. Probably the best-known species is the Fossa. All species of Euplerinae were formerly classified as viverrids. A recent study has shown that the eight living species of Madagascar carnivores evolved from one ancestor. So the Malagasy Carnivores is a family closely allied with the mongooses. The Fossa and the Malagasy Civet are believed to be the most ancient surviving species within this group. The closest living relatives of the Madagascar carnivores are the true mongooses.

 

Author: Miles S

Published: 07/2017

 

Photo Credits: http://www.angelo.edu/faculty/kboudrea/lagniappe/ pictures_san_antonio_zoo/2_cat_Fossa.jpg http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Mongoose.jpg