KNOWLEDGE BASE

This study analysed fossils from an extinct giant beaver called Castoroides. At one point, these were amongst the most common large animals in North America. The study confirmed that this giant beaver mainly ate underwater plants, relying heavily on wetland habitats. Unlike modern beavers, Castoroides didn't eat trees or woody plants. The study suggests that a changing climate likely contributed to this giant beaver's extinction.

Scientists analysed muscles from ten female beavers. Thigh muscles had the highest fat content, while shoulder muscles had the least. Each muscle had different levels of saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fats. Comparing these profiles to what is healthy for humans to eat, the authors conclude that beavers' thigh muscles had the healthiest fat profile: high polyunsaturated fats and low cholesterol-related indicators.

This report described a possible case of beaver meat being linked to human trichinellosis - a parasitic infection caused by Trichinella worms. Despite rare reports of trichinellae in beavers, no human cases had been documented. The authors said that it was important to raise awareness of this potential health risk associated with beaver meat. Please note, this resource is not open-access.

Several lineages of beavers independently evolved to a much bigger size than modern beavers. This study reports on an extinct giant beaver in northeast China. This beaver lived alongside other animals like mammoths and bison around 40,000 years ago. The cause of its extinction is uncertain but might be connected to hunting by humans. Please note, this resource is not open-access.

In the USA, researchers sought to understand the uniqueness of different types of beaver wetland in comparison to other nearby habitats. Beaver ponds host unique species at different ages. Thus, the authors say that beaver activity is likely going to be very helpful for preserving biodiversity in the face of climate change. Please note, this resource is not open-access.