Ground sloths originated in South America millions of years ago, eventually spreading to regions as far as Canada. Unlike their modern tree-dwelling relatives, some ground sloths were immense, competing with today’s elephants. Recent research in The Journal of Mammalian Evolution focuses on understanding the physical characteristics of these extinct creatures, particularly their fur and adaptations to temperature. By analyzing isotopes in fossilized teeth, scientists, led by UCLA researchers, offer insights into the body temperature and ecological variation among these ancient megafauna, reflecting their adaptability to diverse climates.
Research indicates that ground sloths, which thrived in diverse climates across the Americas, exhibit varied characteristics, especially regarding their fur and adaptations to temperature.
Ground sloths, ranging from tropical to cold habitats, exhibited significant size variation, with the largest species competing with today's elephants, showcasing incredible diversity.
The study utilized fossilized teeth to determine sloth body temperature, employing isotope analysis pioneered by researchers at UCLA to glean insights into extinct species.
This research, published in The Journal of Mammalian Evolution, aims to create a clearer picture of the appearance and ecological adaptations of these extinct megafauna.
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