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Fossil dugongs are the most common mammalian fossils found in Florida (Hulbert, 2001), and of the several known species, Metaxytherium floridanum is probably the most abundant (Domning, 1988). Its dense and massive ribs are the most typical remains, usually found in pieces ranging from 1 to 4 inches (2-10 cm) in length. They can be recognized by their rounded shape and layered structure in cross section (Hulbert, 2001). After rib fragments, the most frequently found fossils are relatively dense portions of the vertebrae and the skull cap, the dorsal surface of the skull formed from the parietal and exoccipital bones. Several complete skeletons of Metaxytherium floridanum have been found, most in the phosphate mines of Polk County, but also an exquisite skeleton was found in the bank of a creek near Gainesville High School in Alachua County. From these skeletons it can be estimated that Metaxytherium floridanum was about 3 to 3.5 meters long in life.
Source: Florida Museum of Natural History
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