Notharctinae

The Notharctinae were a subfamily of extinct primates, closely related to modern lemurs, that lived approximately 54 million years ago during the Eocene Epoch. These small primates, with genera like Notharctus, are known from fossil remains found in both Europe and North America.1

Notharctus had a prominent muzzle, long canine teeth, and long, slender limbs and tail. Its hands and feet may have had opposable digits, suggesting it was an agile climber that inhabited dense subtropical forests. Despite their similarities to lemurs, Notharctus possessed distinct dental features, including four premolars. The Notharctinae, including Notharctus, became extinct by the end of the Eocene Epoch.1