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For years, an extinct group of rhinos has been widely acknowledged as the largest land mammals to ever exist. Between 34 million and 23 million years ago, the hornless Paraceratherium genus inhabited what is now central Asia. So far, at least three species have been identified. With their elongated necks and towering stature, these herbivores draw loose parallels to today's giraffes. Similar to these modern leaf-eaters, Paraceratherium may have relied on powerful, prehensile lips to strip foliage from tree branches.
Weighing approximately 18.7 tons, the largest adults were true behemoths. However, recent findings indicate that two other mammals may have surpassed them in size.
A recent study reveals that Palaeoloxodon namadicus, which once inhabited India, China, and Japan and is closely related to the modern Asian elephant, stood 16 feet tall at the shoulder and weighed a staggering 24 tons. Additionally, Mammut borsoni, a European mastodon, reached heights of 1 feet, with the largest individuals weighing as much as or even more than the ancient rhinos.
If the study's findings are accurate, Palaeoloxodon namadicus would hold the title of the largest land mammal to have ever existed.
Elephants and their ancient relatives are collectively known as proboscideans. While modern elephants are massive, they would appear relatively small compared to these extinct giants. However, determining the exact size and weight of these prehistoric creatures is challenging. Paleontologist Asier Larramendi analyzed the bones of 24 species, both living and extinct. (For Palaeoloxodon namadicus, only a single femur was available.) Using this data, he created digital models to estimate their height and weight.
At such a colossal size, Palaeoloxodon namadicus would have not only surpassed Paraceratherium in weight but might have also rivaled certain long-necked dinosaurs like Camarasaurus. This giant species went extinct approximately 24,000 years ago.
