Part 13/16:
Herbivores formed the backbone of Pabos' ecosystem. Massive ungulates, resembling rhinos without horns, and sturdy ground sloths kept the landscape bustling with activity. Among the largest herbivores was the Uramacquia, weighing up to four tons, providing ample prey for the apex predators.
Yet, such a biodiversity-rich environment could not last forever. The rising Andean mountains, a process that began tens of millions of years ago, fundamentally altered the basin's landscape. Over time, uplifted terrain caused the basin to drain—the large lake system gradually disappeared. The once-standing water bodies leaked and receded, transforming their environments into terrestrial habitats or open floodplains.