The Thick-Boned Lemur
Pachylemur was a genus of giant lemur closely related to modern ruffed lemurs (Varecia), but it was a much more robust animal. There were two known species, Pachylemur insignis and Pachylemur jullyi, which weighed around 10 kilograms (22 pounds) and 13 kilograms (29 pounds) respectively. This makes them three to four times larger than their living relatives. The name Pachylemur translates to "thick lemur," a fitting description for its powerful and heavily built skeleton. Its forelimbs and hindlimbs were nearly the same length, suggesting it was not a leaper like modern ruffed lemurs. Instead, analysis of its bones indicates it was a slow, deliberate arboreal quadruped. It likely moved through the upper canopy with caution, using hindlimb suspension to hang and reach fruits, similar to its modern cousins.
Subfossil remains of Pachylemur have been discovered in caves, marshes, and other sites across most of Madagascar, with notable finds in locations like Ankilitelo Cave and Tsimanampesotse National Park. These bones paint a picture of an animal that was a fruit specialist. Dental analysis, including wear patterns and the presence of caries, shows a diet heavy on fruit, possibly supplemented with some leaves. The massive jaws and large molars of Pachylemur suggest it could process harder and more fibrous fruits than any lemur alive today.