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How are lions classified in the genus Panthera?

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A male lion — lion The distinguishing feature of a male lion (*Panthera leo*) is its mane, which makes the animal look larger and may serve to intimidate rivals or impress prospective mates.

The lion (Panthera leo) is classified within the genus Panthera, a group of big, or roaring, cats that also includes the leopard, jaguar, and tiger.12

Within the broader biological hierarchy, Panthera belongs to the subfamily Pantherinae, a lineage of cats that genetic studies suggest emerged in central Asia approximately 16 million years ago. While lions are members of this genus, other cats often confused with them, such as the mountain lion (or puma), are classified in the separate genus Puma.21

Modern scientific consensus, based on genetic evidence reported in 2017, recognizes two primary subspecies of the lion: Panthera leo leo and Panthera leo melanochaita.1