Exploring the influence of ancient and historic megaherbivore extirpations on the global methane budget

• DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1502547112
• Publication Date: 2015-10-27T02:38:47Z
• Authors: Felisa A. Smith; John I. Hammond; Meghan A. Balk; Scott M. Elliott; S. Kathleen Lyons; Melissa I. Pardi; Catalina P. Tomé; Peter J. Wagner; Marie L. Westover
• Keywords: Megafauna; Trophic cascade

Significance Most large mammals are endangered or vulnerable across the globe. Although loss of charismatic fauna is great concern, their role in ecosystem function remains poorly characterized. Here, we quantify one potential effect decline herbivores: reduction greenhouse gas methane released as a byproduct plant digestion. We examine three time periods where large-scale losses megaherbivores occurred—the African rinderpest epizootic 1890s, massive Great Plains bison kill-off 1860s, and terminal Pleistocene extinction megafauna. find detectable decreases global budget related to extirpation megaherbivores. Our findings underscore importance regulating ecosystems feedbacks on climate.