Ancient rock art in this region is being threatened by global warming

This rock painting found in a cave on the island of Sulawesi, Indonesia, is the oldest known in the world. It represents a wild boar and dates from at least 45,500 years ago. Photo: AFP

Climate change is a major issue affecting many domains, and while it may not be the first thing that comes to mind, rock art specialists are particularly concerned.

A new study reveals that some of the oldest rock art sites are threatened with extinction due to global warming, especially in South-East Asia. Researchers based in Australia and Indonesia looked at the island of Sulawesi, which has numerous rock paintings, including a figurative Sulawesi boar fresco dating back at least 45,500 years.