Ancient Tree Resin Reveals Early Human Migration to Pacific 55,000 Years Ago

New archaeological findings in West Papua's Mololo Cave offer the earliest direct evidence of seafaring humans in the Pacific.

Excavations in Mololo Cave uncovered tree resin, stone artifacts, and animal bones, dating human presence to at least 55,000 years ago.
The resin, the oldest found outside Africa, suggests early humans used it for fires, boat construction, or tool-making.
Findings indicate early human diets included marsupials, megabats, and ground-dwelling birds, showing adaptability to diverse environments.
Seafaring simulations propose a northern equatorial route into New Guinea, supporting theories of early migration corridors.
Ongoing research aims to clarify the timing and routes of human dispersals and their impact on local megafauna extinctions.