The diagram illustrates the evolutionary development of the horse over a period of 40 million years, focusing on changes in overall physical structure and lower limb anatomy.
On the whole, across four distinct epochs, the animal underwent a dramatic increase in stature alongside a complete transformation of its feet, progressing from a small creature featuring multiple toes to a massive mammal supported by a single hoof.
Starting forty million years ago, the earliest precursor, Eohippus, was diminutive and possessed four distinct digits on each foot. By 30 million years ago, Mesohippus had expanded in scale, while its foot structure consolidated to three toes.
Fifteen million years ago, Merychippus displayed a significantly larger frame, with its central digit growing dominant while the lateral ones diminished. Ultimately, the modern horse evolved into the largest specimen, featuring fully unified limbs ending in single, sturdy hooves suited for supporting its weight.
