The Role of Humans in the Loss of Neanderthals

A new DNA study shows that Neanderthals were not isolated and weak, but rather lived in large and connected communities. This finding points to the role of modern humans in their extinction.The study examined the DNA of 27 Neanderthals from 10 different archaeological sites in Belgium and France. This is one of the largest and most reliable datasets obtained so far. The findings in Goyet include evidence of cannibalism, with signs of flesh being stripped and bones being broken to access the marrow.

Modern humans already existed at that time. However, Neanderthals did not exhibit the 'demographic collapse' signs often seen in other extinct animal species.

The life of Neanderthals has long been portrayed as “primitive, coarse, and doomed to extinction.” However, the new study suggests that they, like us, had complex social relationships, connected groups, and possibly periods of violence and peace.

But some species can become extinct very quickly. Humans can sometimes eliminate other species in just a few decades. In such rapid extinctions, there is not enough time for genetic collapse signals to accumulate.

Neanderthals were an extinct human species that was the closest relative of modern humans. Physically, they were characterized by their short and stocky body structure, large nose, and prominent brow bones.