Abstract (eng)
This study aims at a closer exploration of the assumed variations within metrics and the evolutionary level of the Cave Bear.
Due to the following facts, Ramesch cave is a very special place for the discovery of bones and teeth of Ursus s. eremus in the Alps. There is a huge amount of fossils; thus, statistical methods can be applied over the entire profile.
The fossils’ age lies between 130ka and 35ka BP, there are time gaps in Early-Wurmian, though.
Before the data was processed, the depths of the individual elements had been supplemented from other inventories and divided into layer units. The mean values of depths were calculated for the single layer complexes.
By using the data, graphs of mean values were created. They show trends in evolution in terms of adjustments.
In the discussion, the results were observed under different aspects; and the possible reasons for the adaptations to the alpine life were also discussed.
Following points are subject of discussion:
- Adaptations to the life in high alpine regions:
Improvement of chewing efficiency and reduction of body dimensions (Rabeder et all 2008)
- Climatic changes:
The calculated insolation (known as Milanković curves) according to astronomical parameters, suggest that the summer temperatures were subject of strong fluctua-tions in Middle-Wurmian, while the relatively low oxygen isotope values ( O18 ) curves speak for dry conditions (Döppes et al 2011).
These two indicators affect the flora to a larger extent
- Immigration of Ursus ingressus to Totes Gebirge before 50ka.