Neanderthals Thrived in Europe Before Extinction
A new study of ancient DNA from Neanderthals in Belgium and France reveals that populations were genetically diverse and well-connected 45,000 years ago. Despite this stability, the group vanished shortly after, highlighting the mystery surrounding their eventual extinction.
Why it matters
Understanding the genetic health and social structure of late Neanderthals provides critical insights into why this hominid species disappeared despite appearing resilient.
Neanderthals thrived across Europe and the Middle East for hundreds of thousands of years. They occupied vast distances, ranging from Europe through the Altai Mountains in Central Asia. They survived large variations in climate and the arrival of modern humans until around 40,000 years ago, when they died out. The exact factors that resulted in their disappearance remain unknown, with possible explanations including climate change, resource competition and interbreeding with anatomically modern humans.
The article reports on scientific findings from a peer-reviewed study without political or social agenda.
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