[knarf]

Unless this type of study can prove that ancient horses had five fingers and five toes, or were adept at basket weaving ... I see no point in the research other than curiosity.

If, after studying all of this, they admit that there is not much variation or difference in the two horses ... stop the funding and go find YETI

[BlueStateRightist]

“... I see no point in the research other than curiosity.”

Exactly. Much government-funded research is playground stuff. Scientists having fun with other people’s money, but realizing no tangible benefit to society.

[null and void]

Unless this type of study can prove that ancient horses had five fingers and five toes,

Eohippus (meaning "dawn horse") was the earliest-known horse ...

This primitive horse had 4 hoofed toes on the front feet and 3 hoofed toes on each hind foot.

I assume 4 in the front and 3 in the back doesn't meet your high standards.