Variations in Microtus arvalis and Microtus agrestis (Arvicolinae, Rodentia) dental morphologies in an archaeological context: the case of Teixoneres Cave (Late Pleistocene, North-Eastern Iberia)

Abstract

Morphological and morphometric variations in the first lower molars of Microtus arvalis and Microtus agrestis from the late Pleistocene site of Teixoneres Cave (Barcelona, Spain) have been investigated in order to understand the modifications in dental patterns occurring in these two species in a peripheral region of their distribution area. It was possible to identify along the sequence differences in size and frequencies of morphotypes within the two populations, corresponding to environmental and climatic oscillations. Hypotheses to explain these intraspecific changes are discussed, and the variations are ascribed primarily to small-scale intraregional movements of these two rodent populations.