noun
- large animals, especially those weighing over 45 kilograms (100 pounds)
- extinct large animals from prehistoric times, such as mammoths and giant ground sloths
Usage: scientific
Usage: paleontology
Examples
- The African savanna is home to diverse megafauna including elephants, rhinos, and giraffes.
- Australia’s megafauna disappeared around 50,000 years ago.
- Scientists study megafauna to understand ecosystem dynamics.
- The Pleistocene epoch was known for its impressive megafauna.
- Conservation efforts focus on protecting remaining megafauna species.
- Megafauna play crucial roles as ecosystem engineers in their habitats.