Dynamique des végétations sur le causse du Larzac au cours des 8000 dernières années : contribution de l’étude anthracologique du Rajal del Gorp (Millau, Aveyron).

A comprehensive anthracological study of the Rajal del Gorp cave on the Larzac Plateau reveals significant shifts in vegetation dynamics over the last 8,000 years, driven by postglacial climate warming. The research highlights a transition from pine-dominated landscapes to mixed oak-pine forests, with oak becoming dominant by the late Neolithic period. Rare heather taxa, linked to moderate forest opening or grazing, emerged during the Middle/Final Neolithic and persisted until the site's abandonment. This study provides novel insights into Holocene vegetation changes on the Larzac Plateau, contrasting with patterns observed in neighboring regions like the Causses Noir or southern sites at lower altitudes. The research is based on a 16-layered sediment sequence from the cave, offering the most detailed anthropogenic and environmental record for this area.

Liottier, L., Chabal, L., & Demierre, M. (2017). Dynamique des végétations sur le causse du Larzac au cours des 8000 dernières années : contribution de l’étude anthracologique du Rajal del Gorp (Millau, Aveyron). Quaternaire, vol. 28/3, 337–352. https://doi.org/10.4000/quaternaire.8283