Costa Rica Unearths Rare Pleistocene Megafauna Fossils In Cartago
Costa Rica’s National Museum has confirmed the discovery of fossil remains from two Pleistocene era megafauna species in Cartago province, central Costa Rica. The find includes remains attributed to Cuvieronius, a mastodon relative within the proboscidean group, and Eremotherium, a giant ground sloth that once roamed the region.
Officials described the discovery as one of the country’s most significant in decades. Moreover, researchers believe the fossils date back between 10,000 and 40,000 years, based on preliminary geological assessments and sediment layer analysis.
Excavation Triggered By Local Alert
The investigation began after a local resident alerted authorities to possible fossil remains on private property. Following this report, specialists from the museum’s natural history department conducted a site inspection and carried out an initial assessment.
Subsequently, the team launched a formal excavation and recovery operation. However, researchers faced difficult conditions because of uneven terrain and the site’s proximity to a river. Despite these challenges, they continued systematic work to secure and preserve the remains.
So far, the museum has conducted 13 excavation and rescue operations. As a result, teams have recovered 49 fossil pieces from the site.
Significant Fossil Recovery
Among the most notable discoveries is a complete tusk measuring 1.60 metres in length. In addition, researchers recovered a second tusk fragment, vertebrae, a femur, phalanges, ribs and other bone material. Some of these remains still require detailed identification and further study.
The presence of Cuvieronius confirms that mastodon relatives once inhabited what is now Costa Rica. At the same time, the discovery of Eremotherium provides further evidence of giant ground sloths living in the region during the late Pleistocene period.
Researchers continue to analyse the fossils to determine more precise dating and environmental context. Therefore, further findings may shed additional light on the ecosystems that existed in Central America thousands of years ago.
One Of The Most Important Finds In Decades
Museum officials have emphasised the importance of the discovery. They consider it one of the most significant paleontological finds in Costa Rica in recent decades. Furthermore, the scale and condition of the recovered material enhance its scientific value.
The fossils offer a rare glimpse into prehistoric life in the region. Consequently, they may help scientists better understand species distribution, climate conditions and extinction patterns at the end of the Pleistocene era.
As research progresses, the National Museum plans to continue studying and preserving the material. The discovery not only expands Costa Rica’s paleontological record but also highlights the role of local communities in identifying and protecting cultural and natural heritage.
Inputs from Reuters
