In:
Quaternary Research, Cambridge University Press (CUP), Vol. 80, No. 1 ( 2013-07), p. 113-124
Abstract:
The middle Paleolithic stratigraphic sequence of Les Pradelles (Charente, France) spans from the end of Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 4 until the middle of MIS 3. Micromammal remains are present in all the stratigraphic levels, offering a rare opportunity to address the questions of both environmental and climatic fluctuations throughout this period. Climate modes were studied through the taphonomy, biodiversity and oxygen isotope compositions of phosphate (δ 18 O p ) from 66 samples of rodent tooth enamel. The δ 18 O p values from the lower sedimentary levels provide summer mean air temperatures of 19 ± 2°C (level 2/1) and of 16 ± 2°C (levels 2A, 2B and 4A). Within the middle of sequence (level 4B), a paleobiodiversity change can be identified with an increase of Dicrostonyx torquatus , which is associated with the largest amplitude in δ 18 O p values and the highest maximal δ 18 O p values. At the top of the sequence (level 5-2), a biodiversity change is observed with the increase of Microtus arvalis , but without any change in δ 18 O p values. The association of cold rodent species with unexpected high and large amplitudes in the δ 18 O p values of their teeth, possibly indicative of aridity, suggests their deposition during a Heinrich event.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
0033-5894
,
1096-0287
DOI:
10.1016/j.yqres.2013.03.007
Language:
English
Publisher:
Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Publication Date:
2013
detail.hit.zdb_id:
1471589-2
detail.hit.zdb_id:
205711-6
SSG:
13
SSG:
14
Permalink
