【科技日报】发掘百万年前“古生物化石宝藏”

Core Viewpoint - The excavation and research of the Camel Mountain paleontological site in Dalian has entered a new phase, integrating fossil protection and development with the region's tourism resources, aiming to establish a world-class cultural tourism IP in Northeast Asia [2][8]. Group 1: Excavation and Research Progress - The Camel Mountain site has yielded over ten thousand vertebrate fossil specimens, covering more than 120 species of mammals, including newly discovered species like the Dalian post-mole and Jinpu American leopard [5][6]. - The research team has established a high-resolution biostratigraphic framework for the late Cenozoic era in Northeast China, publishing over 30 papers in core journals [6][8]. - The excavation site, known as Jinyuan Cave, has a unique geological and biological significance, with a stratigraphic record spanning from 3.6 million to 300,000 years ago, documenting five major geological and biological events [4][6]. Group 2: Fossil Analysis and Findings - Fossils discovered include a complete specimen of a giant camel, which lived 1.8 million years ago, providing insights into the evolution of this species and its environment [5][6]. - Analysis of fossilized dung has revealed a complete food chain from 1.6 million years ago, indicating a diverse ecosystem with intermingled coniferous and broadleaf forests [6][8]. - The research has identified five significant biological turnover events that correspond with global climate fluctuations, such as a cooling event around 2.6 million years ago that led to the emergence of cold-adapted species like the woolly mammoth and woolly rhinoceros [6][8]. Group 3: Collaboration and Future Development - The collaboration between the Dalian Jinpu New Area and the Chinese Academy of Sciences has established a national-level research platform, ensuring professional scientific research while promoting fossil resource protection and utilization [8]. - The ongoing excavation and research efforts are expected to continue for at least another 50 years, with the current generation only beginning to uncover the site's potential [8].