Source-explorersweb.com
Recent findings from Baishiya Karst cave in Tibet shed light on the enduring presence of Denisovans, an extinct human species, in the region as recent as 40,000 years ago.
Persistence Through Harsh Conditions
The discovery challenges previous notions of Denisovans’ timeline, showing they survived well into the era when modern humans had already spread across Asia. This remarkable persistence in challenging environments prompts questions about what ultimately led to their extinction.
Insights from Baishiya Cave
Baishiya Cave, previously known for its religious significance, has now become a crucial archaeological site revealing the presence of Denisovans’ adaptations and behaviors. Among over 2,500 preserved bones found in the cave, a rib bone dating between 48,000 to 32,000 years ago provides key insights.
Unraveling Denisovan Mysteries
Study co-author Dr. Geoff Smith from the University of Reading highlighted the significance of identifying Denisovan remains amidst predominantly prey bones. Using advanced techniques like mass spectrometry, researchers linked bones to various species, illustrating Denisovans’ diet and survival strategies.
The findings underscore Denisovans’ ability to thrive in extreme altitudes and fluctuating climates, suggesting they efficiently utilized local resources over millennia.
Challenges and Legacy
Living at 3,300 meters above sea level on the Tibetan Plateau during the Ice Age required extraordinary cold adaptation from Denisovans. Despite their resilience, the reasons behind their eventual extinction remain elusive.
Summing Up
While Denisovans’ genetic legacy persists in modern human populations, particularly in regions like New Guinea, their story ends with unanswered questions about their disappearance from the Tibetan Plateau. The juxtaposition of their adaptability to both extreme cold and warm climates adds complexity to the narrative of human evolution.
As research continues to unravel the presence of Denisovans, Baishiya Cave stands as a testament to their endurance and the challenges they faced. Each discovery brings us closer to understanding the fate of this enigmatic species and its profound impact on human evolutionary history.
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