Chinese archaeologists have unearthed a large number of fossilized bones of a type of ancient mammal called the hipparion horse, in an urban district of Xinxiang City, Henan Province.

According to the archeologists, a total of 1,000 fossils were found 13 meters underground at the site, which covers an area of more than 10 sq. km.

The hipparion horse evolved from the dawn-horse, the expert said.

The species died out around 2.3 million years ago.

Archeologists have determined that the climate of the area was mild and water and grass were rich in the prehistorical period, with diversified plant and animal species.

Experts also believe that these fossils will provide important clues for scientific research on ancient geological changes and biological evolution.

(People’s Daily 02/20/2001)