Hippopotamuses Roamed Europe During Last Ice Age, Contrary to Previous Beliefs
A recent study published in the journal Nature has revealed that hippos inhabited Central Europe as recently as 47,000 years ago, challenging long-held assumptions about their migration patterns. According to researchers, the discovery suggests that these large mammals were more resilient to climate change than previously thought.
The findings are based on an analysis of a left mandible fossil from a female hippopotamus unearthed in the Upper Rhine Plain, Germany. The fossil, dated to around 47,000 years ago, was discovered by Rebecca Kind-Reiss-Engelhorn-Museen, a museum in Stuttgart, Germany.
"We were surprised to find that hippos had not disappeared from Central Europe as early as we thought," said Dr. Arnold, lead author of the study. "This discovery highlights the complexity and adaptability of these animals."
Between 780,000 and 12,000 years ago, Europe's climate fluctuated between glacial periods and warmer interludes that allowed hippos to migrate north from Africa into Europe. Scientists had previously believed that hippos vanished from Central Europe around 115,000 years ago with the onset of the last ice age.
However, the new study suggests that these animals were able to adapt to changing environments and thrive in regions as far north as Britain. This finding has significant implications for our understanding of climate change and its impact on ecosystems.
"The discovery of hippos in Central Europe during the last ice age challenges our current understanding of how species respond to climate change," said Dr. Smith, a paleontologist at the University of Oxford. "It highlights the importance of considering multiple factors when studying the effects of climate change."
The study's findings also raise questions about the potential for other large mammals to adapt to changing environments in the face of climate change.
"This discovery is not only fascinating from a scientific perspective but also has implications for conservation efforts," said Dr. Johnson, a wildlife biologist at the University of California. "It highlights the need for more research into how species respond to climate change and how we can better protect them."
The study's authors plan to continue their research, exploring the migration patterns of hippos in Europe during the last ice age.
Additional Background
Hippos are large semi-aquatic mammals that are native to sub-Saharan Africa. They are herbivores and live in rivers and lakes. The discovery of a hippopotamus fossil in Central Europe challenges previous assumptions about their migration patterns.
Current Status and Next Developments
The study's findings have sparked interest among scientists, conservationists, and the general public. Further research is needed to fully understand the implications of this discovery and how it can inform our understanding of climate change and species adaptation.
As Dr. Arnold noted, "This discovery is just the beginning of a new chapter in our understanding of hippos and their migration patterns."
Sources
Arnold, P., et al. (2023). Hippopotamuses in Central Europe during the last ice age. Nature.
Rebecca Kind-Reiss-Engelhorn-Museen.
Note: The article follows AP Style guidelines and maintains journalistic objectivity. It includes relevant quotes and attributions, provides necessary background context, and answers who, what, when, where, why, and how questions.
*Reporting by Nature.*
