Savanna-like Mammalian Community in the Middle Miocene of Northern China
- Chunxiao Li,
- Shiqi Wang,
- Yang Wang,
- Tao Deng,
- Jiao Ma,
- Bian Wang,
- Qiaogao Jiangzuo,
- Danhui Sun
Chunxiao Li
Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Chinese Academy of Sciences
Author ProfileTao Deng
Institutef Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Chinese Academy of Sciences
Author ProfileJiao Ma
Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Chinese Academy of Sciences
Author ProfileBian Wang
Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Chinese Academy of Sciences
Author ProfileQiaogao Jiangzuo
Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Chinese Academy of Sciences
Author ProfileDanhui Sun
Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Chinese Academy of Sciences
Author ProfileAbstract
The paleoenvironments and ecosystem of northern China during the Miocene
are complex issues, particularly because it relates to the impact of the
uplift of the Tibetan Plateau on the surrounding areas and the
ecological adaption of mammals. Our analyses using stable carbon and
oxygen isotope analysis, cenograms, and hypsodonty of large herbivorous
mammals reveal arid and open habitats in the northern Junggar Basin, and
the different adaptations of mammalian taxa. In the early Middle
Miocene, the Junggar Basin witnessed the emergence of savanna habitats
characterized by an open landscape. This habitat further spread to
northern China during the late Middle Miocene, indicating the widespread
distribution of savannas in these regions. This shift is linked to the
rapid elevation of the Tibetan Plateau's northern part, accelerating
Central Asia's aridification. Our findings enhance our understanding of
the Middle Miocene paleoecology in northern China and the adaptive
strategies of mammals to environmental changes.