blasbenito edited discussion.tex  almost 9 years ago

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In this paper we present the first model of Neanderthals potential distribution across Europe during the Last Interglacial (Eemian, MIS 5e, ~130 ka BP). We have applied a robust state-of-the-art modeling approach to take advantage of a sparse set of archaeological records and a palaeoclimatic simulation to produce the model. We analyzed the model using regression-tree based statistical methods to assess how environmental variables shaped habitat suitability at continental and local scales, and assessed to what extent our preliminary hypothesis on the abiotic drivers of Neanderthals distribution matched the results of the model.  The discussion about the distribution of Neanderthals across Europe during the Eemian has been the focus of just a few papers during the last years \cite{Richter2005, Richter2006, Wenzel_2007, Gaudzinski2011}. Wenzel_2007}.  \citet{Wenzel_2007} reviews a set of Eemian Neanderthal sites, discuses the nature of the archaeological remains, and summarizes Neanderthals culture and behavior during the Eemian. From an ecological point of view, Wenzel discusses whether the "shade forest phase" of MIS 5e influenced negatively the abundance of hunting resources for Neanderthals in Central Europe, and also provides information about the use of beaches to obtain seafood. 

\cite{Richter2005} provides a comprehensive list of Eemian sites compiled from other sources, but focuses most of his discussion on Kabazi II (Crimea), where extensive evidence of Neanderthal hunting and butchering over Equus hydruntinus has been found. Nevertheless, this paper also maps de di Also provides a complete description of the vegetation during the las interglacial, and discuss the lack of preys in dense forests probably related with a decrease in Neanderthals population in densely forested areas.  \citet{Gaudzinski2011} is focused on the archaeological remains available at the North German Plain (Neumark-Nord), discusses the low availability of hunting resources in the interglacial forested environments, enumerates the mammal species found with cut-marks (Neanderthal preys),