A woolly rhinoceros, frozen in time for over 32,000 years, is revealing secrets buried beneath the ice. But what can it still teach us?
The carcass extracted from the ice in the Sakha Republic of Russia in August 2020.
Image Boeskorov, Chernova, Protopopov et al. (2024)
Nicknamed the "Abyisky rhinoceros," this specimen was discovered in a remote region of northeastern Russia, buried under permafrost for thousands of years. Its right side remained remarkably intact, preserved by the cold, while its left side shows clear signs of predation, likely caused by scavengers. Researchers believe it was attacked shortly after its death, perhaps by opportunistic animals drawn to its freshly fallen carcass in this harsh environment.
Natural mummification, due to the permanent freeze, allowed for exceptional preservation. The soft tissues and fur were carefully analyzed, revealing details of the animal's anatomy. Notably, a fatty hump, previously unobserved in this species, was discovered on its back. This fat reserve played a vital role in adapting to the freezing cold of the time. It allowed the animal to survive harsh winters, when food became scarce. A similar adaptation is also observed in mammoths.
Researchers also found fossilized parasites, including microscopic aquatic crustaceans, in the rhino's fur. These small organisms suggest that the animal likely died in a shallow pond or swamp. Its body was quickly covered by ice afterward, preventing natural decomposition.
This discovery sheds new light on Pleistocene fauna. Genetic information obtained from the preserved tissues will allow comparisons between the rhino's DNA and that of other extinct species.
However, climate change, by accelerating the thawing of permafrost, threatens these prehistoric remains. A race against time is underway to preserve these treasures from rapid decomposition.
What is permafrost and why is it so important for paleontological discoveries?
Permafrost is soil that remains permanently frozen, mainly found in Arctic and sub-Arctic regions. It can reach considerable depths and stays frozen year-round. This natural phenomenon preserves organic materials by preventing their decomposition by bacteria and other microorganisms.
In the realm of paleontological discoveries, permafrost plays a crucial role. The carcasses of animals like woolly rhinoceroses or mammoths, trapped in this soil, naturally mummify. These conditions preserve not only bones but also soft tissues, skin, and fur, providing unprecedented information on these extinct species.
Article author: Cédric DEPOND