Megamammal collections from the Pampean Region (Argentina) in Europe: past and present

Abstract

Pampean (Argentina) megamammal species are seen nowadays in different museums around Europe. These specimens were collected from the late 18th century until the early 20th century. They represent and have inspired the most important milestones in the Natural Science transformations of the 19th century, and were collected for social, political, and economic reasons, both in South America and Europe. In these collections, paleontological, historical, and archaeological realms are merged.Currently, they are useful at research and educational levels, contributing to worldwide society. Up-to-date technological advances allow an equal access to these materials that are especially necessary in these times of pandemic.