Evolutionary Biological Responses of Pikas (Lagomorpha, Mammalia) to Past Insular Ecosystems (Miocene-Holocene): A Key for the Management of Extant Species <sup>†</sup>

Abstract

Fossil biotas provide an opportunity to explore eco-evolutionary adaptations to insular regimes not subjected to the anthropogenic perturbations. Historically, these studies have been biased towards large-sized taxa, and less efforts has been devoted to small ones. For this reason, the present study reviews the general and specific biological responses described in extinct insular ochotonids (Ochotonidae, Lagomorpha) from the Mediterranean Islands (Miocene-Holocene), given the last cutting-edge investigations. Parallel biological trends have been observed in these species, regarding an increase of adult body size, teeth modifications (e.g., higher hypsodonty), slow-gear lifestyle with new locomotion skills (related to digging, climbing or leaping), as well as a slow life history. Most of these features are also noticed in other extinct insular micromammals and largesized species. Although a single ochotonid dwells in true insular environments at present, the future climate change will push them to inhabit top of mountains (ecological islands). The present paper provides useful baseline data (evolutionary history of the family, biological abilities or responses to insularity) for the design and implementation of innovative and effective management actions.