Abstract:
Studying paleoclimatic conditions across geological epochs is essential for understanding climate evolution and its influence on Earth’s biosphere. Leaf macrofossils
serve as a crucial data source for reconstructing ancient climates due to their sensitivity to
environmental changes. Advanced analytical methods, such as the Climate Leaf Analysis
Multivariate Program (CLAMP) and the coexistence approach (CA), enable precise assessment of past climatic parameters using fossilized leaf remains. The Erzhilansay locality,
dated to the early Miocene, represents a remarkable site with exceptionally preserved
and diverse plant fossils, making it pivotal for paleoclimatic reconstructions. This study
reveals that mean annual temperatures and summer temperatures in the early Miocene
were relatively stable over millions of years. In contrast, winters were notably milder,
exhibiting warmer and more consistent conditions. Precipitation levels were significantly
higher, fostering the development of dense vegetation, unlike the arid environment seen
today. These findings underscore the importance of employing integrated methodologies
to reconstruct ancient climates and interpret geological-scale climate changes. The study
also offers critical insights into climate dynamics, supporting the development of strategies
to mitigate current environmental challenges.
