Understanding Late Quaternary extinctions: The case of Myotragus balearicus (Bate, 1909)

摘要: Aim  In this study we present a new view on the extinction of Myotragus balearicus, an extinct highly modified dwarf caprine from Gymnesic Islands (or eastern Balearic Islands), as methodological case for interpretation Late Quaternary extinctions (LQEs). Methods  We analyse all available 14C ages obtained M. balearicus bones uppermost part Pleistocene and Holocene, together with chronological data putative causes extinction. Results  It has been possible to define two critical dates that allow us establish ‘uncertainty period extinction’ (UPME) in each analysed island (Mallorca, Menorca Cabrera). For Mallorca, UPME corresponds interval c. 3700 2030 calbc (i.e. 1670 years uncertainty). Menorca, spans 10,000 1930 calbc (8070 years uncertainity). Cabrera is placed between 3650 300 calbc (3350 years These periods, review information chronology human arrival Holocene climatic change, shed light species. Main conclusions  Extinction because change can be definitively rejected. The must attributed rapid effects first occupation. use uncertainity periods disappearance species represents useful tool analysis LQEs.