Everything Dinosaur has commissioned a new Moeritherium scale drawing to illustrate a fact sheet about this remarkable prehistoric mammal. The fact sheet will be supplied free of charge with purchases of the Beasts of the Cenozoic Moeritherium lyonsi 1:18 scale articulated figure. This exciting prehistoric mammal model will be in stock at Everything Dinosaur later this month (October 2026).

The illustration helps collectors appreciate the size and proportions of this unusual prehistoric animal. Furthermore, the accompanying fact sheet provides information about its discovery, classification and possible lifestyle.

A scale drawing of Moeritherium lyonsi. This squat, robust ancestor of modern elephants had a shoulder height of approximately seventy centimetres. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

To view the Beasts of the Cenozoic/Beasts of the Mesozoic models in stock: Beasts of the Cenozoic/Beasts of the Mesozoic Figures.

Moeritherium – An Ancient Relative of Elephants

Moeritherium lyonsi lived during the Late Eocene Epoch, it is one of several species assigned to the Moeritherium genus. Fossils have been discovered in North Africa, including the famous Fayum Depression of Egypt. Although related to extant elephants, Moeritherium looked very different. It was approximately the size of a modern tapir, with a relatively long body and short, sturdy limbs. It lacked the enormous tusks and long trunk associated with living elephants. However, enlarged incisor teeth formed small, tusk-like structures. Actually, it had two sets of tusks, a pair located on the upper jaw which pointed downwards. The second pair of tusks, located in the lower jaw were flat and formed a spade-like structure.

Scientists think that Moeritherium spent considerable time in and around water. Studies of fossil teeth suggest that it consumed soft vegetation, possibly including aquatic plants.

A Complimentary Moeritherium Fact Sheet

Everything Dinosaur regularly commissions prehistoric animal illustrations to support its educational work. The new Moeritherium scale drawing will feature in a specially prepared fact sheet accompanying the Beasts of the Cenozoic Moeritherium lyonsi articulated model.

These complimentary fact sheets help collectors learn more about the prehistoric animals represented by their figures.

Mike from Everything Dinosaur commented:

“Sue and I are delighted to add a fact sheet about this ancient proboscidean to our extensive library of educational resources. Furthermore, we are looking forward to the arrival of the Beasts of the Cenozoic Moeritherium figure.”

The award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur and Prehistoric Animal Figures.