New Study Reveals Extensive Genetic Intermingling Between Neanderthals and Modern Humans
Research shows Neanderthals were absorbed into human populations through multiple waves of interbreeding over 200,000 years.
Overview
- Genetic analysis indicates Neanderthals had 2.5% to 3.7% modern human DNA in their genomes.
- Interbreeding occurred in at least two distinct periods: 200,000-250,000 years ago and 100,000-120,000 years ago.
- The Neanderthal population was smaller than previously estimated, aiding their assimilation into human groups.
- Modern human DNA impacted Neanderthal genomes, leading to higher genetic diversity in their population.
- These findings challenge the notion of Neanderthals as a separate, isolated lineage.