Brief News Daily | Ancient DNA Links Neanderthals Across Eurasia

Introduction

Recent archaeological discoveries in Crimea have unveiled ancient DNA that connects Neanderthals across a vast expanse of Eurasia, dating back approximately 45,000 years. The findings, led by Emily M. Pigott from the University of Vienna, indicate that Neanderthals were not confined to isolated regions but rather engaged in long-distance movement, facilitating interactions among diverse groups over considerable distances. This research not only enhances our understanding of Neanderthal mobility but also sheds light on their adaptability to changing environments.

Discovery of Ancient DNA

The study centered around a small bone fragment recovered from the Starosele rock shelter in Crimea, measuring about two inches long. Utilizing a technique known as Zooarchaeology by Mass Spectrometry (ZooMS), the research team was able to identify species from minute pieces of bone collagen, a method particularly useful for screening fragments that are too small for visual identification. Out of 150 fragments examined, only one was confirmed to contain Neanderthal DNA, while the majority were identified as horse bones. This discovery places the Neanderthal individual in a time frame coinciding with the expansion of modern humans into Europe.

Genetic Connections Across Continents

The researchers sequenced mitochondrial DNA from the identified Neanderthal, which revealed a genetic relationship to Neanderthals found in the Altai region of Siberia. This genetic link emphasizes the idea that Neanderthals traversed vast territories rather than remaining isolated in localized valleys. The presence of stone tools at Starosele, consistent with the Micoquian tradition, further supports this notion, as similar toolkits have been discovered in the Altai region, indicating cultural connections across the distance.

Climate Corridors and Migration Patterns

To understand how Neanderthals navigated such extensive landscapes, the team modeled paleoclimate scenarios. They identified periods when warmer and wetter conditions created grassland corridors between Eastern Europe and Central Asia, facilitating the movement of large herds and the hunters who pursued them. One significant corridor was located near 55 degrees north, which would have been advantageous for Neanderthals as they followed herds of horses and bison. This adaptability to shifting climates allowed Neanderthals to exploit various environments, from open steppes to forested areas, demonstrating their resilience and resourcefulness.

Neanderthal Adaptability and Social Networks

The evidence suggests that Neanderthals were not merely passive followers of animal migrations but actively adjusted their lifestyles to accommodate changing ecosystems. Their tool-making practices, shelter choices, and hunting strategies reveal a sophisticated understanding of their environment. The widespread Micoquian tool tradition indicates that knowledge and techniques were shared among groups, highlighting the presence of social networks that enabled cooperation and survival amidst environmental fluctuations.

Conclusion

The findings from the Starosele site provide valuable insights into the life and movement of Neanderthals, illustrating their ability to maintain connections across vast distances during a pivotal period in human prehistory. As modern humans began to spread throughout Europe, these Neanderthals, despite their declining numbers, managed to sustain relationships across geographic barriers. This research not only contributes to our understanding of Neanderthal genetics and culture but also offers a broader perspective on human evolution, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and social interaction in the survival of species.

Ancient DNA Links Neanderthals Across Eurasia

Extended summary

Introduction

Discovery of Ancient DNA

Genetic Connections Across Continents

Climate Corridors and Migration Patterns

Neanderthal Adaptability and Social Networks

Conclusion

Top Headlines 18.11.2025

TOP IN USA

Trump Signs Bill Releasing Epstein Files Amid Political Pressure

BUSINESS

Meta Warns Young Australians to Download Data Before Social Media Ban

TECHNOLOGY

Panic Button Collaborates with Nintendo on Switch 2 Game Updates