Open final report here.
Open year 1 report here.
Open year 2 report here.
Open year 3 report here.
Open photos here.
Estimated impact of the obtained results, highlighting the most significant result achieved.
The results of the PalRom project have generated a significant impact in the field of paleontological research and in understanding the climatic and ecological transitions during the Eocene-Oligocene boundary, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in several directions:
1. Fundamental scientific contributions
The project has provided significant insights into the adaptations of terrestrial and marine ecosystems in the context of climate change. The detailed study of vertebrate fossils has enabled not only the identification of new taxa but also a deeper understanding of trophic interactions and ecological dynamics during the Eocene/Oligocene interval. For example, it was demonstrated that populations of crocodilians and large mammals reflect the ecological changes triggered by the Bartonian climatic crisis.
2. Impact on the international scientific community
The extensive collaborations with institutions from Europe and Asia have facilitated the dissemination of results, and the articles published in prestigious journals have contributed to increasing the visibility of Romanian research on the international stage. Additionally, the analysis of fossils and their publication will be highly valuable for researchers worldwide.
3. Enhancement of the national geological heritage
Through its discoveries and documentation, the project has reinforced the significance of Romania's paleontological sites, highlighting their value as part of Europe's geological heritage. This aspect paves the way for initiatives focused on the conservation and educational use of these resources.
4. Dissemination to the public and interdisciplinary collaborations
The project had a significant educational impact through the organization of public events, participation in workshops, and delivery of lectures that explained the phenomena of climate change and the adaptation of prehistoric life under discussion. Interdisciplinary collaboration with geologists, biologists, and other specialists demonstrated the value of an integrated research model.
5. The most significant result achieved
The most important result of the project is the clarification of phylogenetic and paleoecological relationships among vertebrate taxa from the Eocene/Oligocene transition period. This achievement was made possible through the use of innovative techniques and detailed analysis of fossil assemblages. Specifically, the study of adaptations in crocodilians, large mammals, lissamphibians, and snakes provides a unique perspective on the effects of climate change on biodiversity, contributing to a deeper understanding of the interactions between climate, environment, and organisms. This advancement represents a landmark in European paleontology.