Megabeasts under the microscope: a closer look at Quaternary extinctions in the Asia-Pacific

Since the 1980’s, micro-analysis techniques applied to worldwide extinctions of Quaternary megafauna have resulted in revolutionary insights. However, in the Asia-Pacific, the infrastructure facilitating micro-analyses is still relatively limited. In this review, the potential of micro-analytical research applied to iconic megafauna will be discussed and evaluated. To address the imbalance between hominin versus faunal focused research we highlight the lack of knowledge of some taxa, the extent of unexplored regions and specific underutilised techniques that are relevant to megafaunal sites. Increased exchange of techniques, facilities and ideas is recommended to bridge the gap with Euro-American regions. This could provide a toolbox for conservation of modern megafauna across the Asia-Pacific to ensure these do not succumb to the same fate as mammoths, megalanias and other megabeasts.