Shivering in the Pleistocene. Human adaptations to cold exposure in Western Europe from MIS 14 to MIS 11.

摘要: Abstract During the mid-Middle Pleistocene MIS 14 to 11, humans spread through Western Europe from Mediterranean peninsulas sub-Arctic region, and they did so not only during warm periods but also glacial stages. In doing so, were exposed harsh environmental conditions, including low or extremely temperatures. Here we review distribution of archeological assemblages in 11 obtain estimates climatic conditions at those localities. Estimates mean annual temperature, winter summer temperatures, lowest temperature coldest month for each locality obtained Oscillayers database. Our results show that hominins endured cold exposure stages interglacials, with temperatures below 0 °C many The efficacy main physiological behavioral adaptations might have been used by Middle cope is evaluated using a simple heat-loss model. suggest anatomical alone, such as increasing basal metabolic rate subcutaneous adipose tissue, enough tolerate Europe, even 13 interglacials. contrast, use fur bed cover appears an effective response We advanced fire production control technology necessary colonization northern 12. propose European populations able endure combining responses, shelter clothes.