Medium and large-sized Glires (Rodents and Lagomorphs) from the early Pleistocene Cooper's D locality in the Cradle of Humankind, Gauteng, South Africa

Research at the early Pleistocene Cooper's D locality in South Africa has uncovered the oldest known occurrence of the genus Geosciurus, extending its fossil record by over one million years. This discovery, derived from a detailed taxonomic and morphological analysis of rodent and lagomorph remains, provides significant insights into the ecological dynamics of mesomammals during this period. The study also incorporates taphonomic observations to better understand the preservation processes affecting these fossils. By examining craniodental remains, the research contributes to a broader understanding of past ecosystems in the Cradle of Humankind and highlights the importance of medium-sized mammals in reconstructing environmental histories.

Linchamps, P., Hanon, R., Stoetzel, E., Cohen, B., & Steininger, C. (2025). Medium and large-sized Glires (Rodents and Lagomorphs) from the early Pleistocene Cooper’s D locality in the Cradle of Humankind, Gauteng, South Africa. Quaternary International, 715, 109590. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.quaint.2024.11.008