The 20th century witnessed an exponential human population growth, soaring from 1.6 billion to over 6 billion. This surge has profoundly affected global environments and biodiversity. Notably, large mammalian herbivores, such as elephants and deer, known for their sensitivity to habitat changes, have shown a surprising resilience. Dr. YANG Yangheshan of ECNU, the lead author of the study, emphasized the uniqueness of this research, stating, "Many previous studies concentrated on how species that have gone extinct or are on the brink of extinction could not adapt to significant environmental changes. By turning our attention to these 'success stories' instead, we aim to understand how species can and have adapted to a human-dominated planet."
The research team's approach involved analyzing dental microwear patterns on large herbivorous mammals, which are indicative of their diets. Dr. Thomas Stidham of IVPP explained the process, saying, "Our research team documented and analyzed the diversity of details of dental microwear, which are microscopic pits, scratches, and other damage preserved on the surfaces of the teeth of large plant-eating mammals. This microwear damage correlates to their diets with the different kinds of plants eaten resulting in different types and amounts of damage accumulated on the tooth surfaces."
The study analyzed 380 lower jaw specimens from 18 species of large herbivores in China, spanning periods before and after the human population explosion (1880s-1910s and 1970s-1990s, respectively). The findings revealed a notable difference in dietary shifts between eastern and western China. In eastern China, where the majority of the population increase occurred and rapid industrialization took place, significant shifts in the plant diets of large herbivores were observed. Conversely, in western China, which has experienced lower population growth, the diets of these mammals remained relatively stable over the same period.
This disparity highlights the adaptability of large herbivores in regions of intense human activity and land use change. The primary changes in the diets of eastern China's herbivores are reflected in increased interspecific differences and expanded intraspecific dietary ranges, suggesting a broader variety of food consumption compared to pre-Anthropocene times.
Prof. SI Xingfeng of ECNU, the corresponding author of the study, noted, "Our findings are a testament to the incredible adaptability of these herbivores. Confronted with the relentless march of human progress, they changed their dietary strategies, and this flexibility is possibly a cornerstone of their resilience in this rapidly changing landscape."
The research importantly establishes a clear link between herbivore dietary shifts and human-induced land-use transformations in China. As humans reshaped the land for agriculture, industry, and habitation, these large herbivores altered their diets in a bid for survival.
This study not only enhances our understanding of the interaction between large herbivores and their changing environment but also offers invaluable insights for future conservation strategies. In an era where ecological shifts are increasingly prevalent, understanding these subtle yet significant adaptations becomes crucial for the effective conservation and preservation of the planet's rich tapestry of life.
Research Report:Uncovering widespread Anthropocene dietary shifts in Chinese large mammalian herbivores
Related Links
Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology
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