Extinction of Woolly Mammoths and Megaherbivores
A new study suggests that human predation by early hunter-gatherers was the main reason for the extinction of woolly mammoths and other giant plant-eating 'megaherbivores' around 50,000 years ago. The study found evidence of human hunting and overexploitation of large animals as the key driver of their extinction.
Key Points
- Human predation by early hunter-gatherers identified as the main cause of extinction
- Large animals vulnerable to overexploitation due to long gestation periods and slow reproduction rates
- Extinction of megafauna can undermine ecosystems and biodiversity
Pros
- Highlights the impact of human activities on the extinction of large animals
- Stresses the importance of conservation efforts to restore ecological balances
Cons
- Loss of biodiversity and disruption of ecosystems due to megafauna extinctions