The study reveals a stark statistic: approximately 50,000 years ago, Earth hosted 57 megaherbivore species, yet today, only 11 of these majestic animals remain—a staggering 81% extinction rate.
During the late Quaternary period, human hunting activities led to the disappearance of hundreds of mammal species, with megafauna suffering significant extinction.
More than 160 animal species, including numerous megafauna, succumbed to human-induced pressures that altered natural ecosystems, impacting vegetation patterns and the dispersal of hardwood tree species.
Firstly, the Quaternary extinctions were a global phenomenon rather than isolated incidents confined to specific regions or climates.
Despite growing awareness and efforts to conserve animal species and their habitats, the losses incurred during these extinction events have not been mitigated.
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In a recent study shedding light on the alarming decline of megaherbivores (large herbivores that can exceed 1,000 kg (2,200 lb) in weight), researchers have highlighted 'human pressures' as the primary cause rather than solely attributing it to climate change. The study reveals a stark statistic: approximately 50,000 years ago, Earth hosted 57 megaherbivore species, yet today, only 11 of these majestic animals remain—a staggering 81% extinction rate. Megaherbivores, characterised by their large size exceeding 1000 kg, play crucial roles in ecosystem balance, from shaping landscapes to influencing plant communities.
These megaherbivores are widely acknowledged for their pivotal role in maintaining the balance of the biosphere and, consequently, the Earth. During the late Quaternary period, human hunting activities led to the disappearance of hundreds of mammal species, with megafauna suffering significant extinction. More than 160 animal species, including numerous megafauna, succumbed to human-induced pressures that altered natural ecosystems, impacting vegetation patterns and the dispersal of hardwood tree species.
The research conducted by the Danish National Research Foundation's Centre for Ecological Dynamics in a Novel Biosphere (ECONOVO) at Aarhus University underscores several key points. Firstly, the Quaternary extinctions were a global phenomenon rather than isolated incidents confined to specific regions or climates. Secondly, these extinctions exhibited a distinct 'size-selective' pattern, primarily affecting large-bodied vertebrates while sparing smaller animals. These patterns suggest a correlation between these global events and the geographic spread and cultural evolution of Homo sapiens. Unlike previous mass extinctions during the Pleistocene age, which were linked primarily to climate change and not specific to size or species, the late Quaternary extinctions highlight human influence as a critical factor.
Despite growing awareness and efforts to conserve animal species and their habitats, the losses incurred during these extinction events have not been mitigated. Presently, 47% of all living mammals are classified as vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with an additional 12% listed as near threatened. Reports indicate ongoing declines in megafauna populations globally, including significant reductions in elephant and rhinoceros numbers in China and the global extinction of animals such as the water buffalo, various equid species, and the gibbon. The advancement of socio-technological developments in human societies is recognised as a primary driver behind these extinctions.
