News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/25th July 2024
Recent research has shed light on the role of early humans in the extinction of large animal species, revealing that Homo sapiens were largely responsible for the disappearance of over 150 megafauna species over the past 50,000 years. This period saw a dramatic reduction in the world’s largest animals, with only their remnants—bones and burrows—left behind.
The study, conducted by scientists from the University of Bristol, provides new insights into the extinction patterns of these megafauna. It focused on the Late Pleistocene (129,000–11,700 years Before Present) and the Early to Middle Holocene (11,700–4,200 years BP), when these extinctions were most severe. The research highlights a correlation between the expansion of modern humans and the dramatic decline of megafauna during these times.
Earlier theories suggested that climatic changes or environmental factors were responsible for the extinction events. However, the study found that such climatic fluctuations were not significantly different from those in earlier periods, which did not witness similar widespread extinctions. Instead, the presence of Homo sapiens and their expansion across various continents appears to be a key factor.
Researchers analyzed multiple sources of data, including climate and vegetation records, body size dynamics of mammals over millions of years, and archaeological evidence of human activities. The findings suggest that while previous climate changes did not lead to extensive megafauna extinctions, the arrival of modern humans had a profound impact. This is evident from the significant decline of these species in regions where humans had newly settled.
The study used evidence such as fungal spores and sedaDNA to track extinction patterns. It noted that megafauna extinctions frequently coincided with the presence of modern humans in various regions. This pattern suggests that human activities, such as hunting, played a critical role in driving these large animals to extinction.
For instance, the movement of Homo sapiens out of Africa around 100,000 years ago introduced new pressures on megafauna. Early humans were effective hunters and had a substantial impact on animal populations, particularly due to the large size of these animals, which made them more susceptible to overexploitation. Their long gestation periods and slow reproductive rates meant that large animals were particularly vulnerable to such pressures.
The study also explored the impact of human activities beyond hunting. Changes in land use and increasing human populations added additional stress on these species, further contributing to their decline. Regions with minimal climatic changes did not offer protection against the effects of human expansion, indicating that human factors were more significant than environmental ones.
In summary, the research underscores the significant role of ancient humans in the extinction of megafauna. The study’s findings highlight the need for understanding historical extinctions to address current biodiversity challenges. It also emphasizes the importance of recognizing human impact in both historical and contemporary contexts to mitigate ongoing threats to wildlife. As modern conservation efforts continue, the lessons from past extinctions can guide strategies to protect endangered species and prevent further losses.
