Discovering Shared Lifestyles: Neanderthals and Homo Sapiens Coexisted in an Ancient Turkish Cave

Posted on July 9, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Recent discoveries in the Üçağızlı II cave along the stunning Mediterranean coast of Turkey reveal comprehensive records suggesting that the cultural transition from Neanderthals to modern humans was far more fluid than previously recognized.

A group of Neanderthals in a cave. Image credit: Tyler B. Tretsven.

“During the mid-to-late Pleistocene, the Levant served as a crucial corridor for the dispersal of our species, homo sapiens, between Africa and Eurasia,” stated Kyoto University archaeologist Naoki Morimoto and colleagues.

“Evidence of early human settlement in the Levant and sporadic expansions into Eurasia is supported by hominid fossils sourced from Misliya Cave (approximately 180,000 years ago), Kafze and Sukfur Cave (around 100,000 years ago), and Apidima Cave (about 200,000 years ago).

“Various models have been proposed concerning events outside Africa; a prevailing hypothesis suggests multiple dispersals between 130,000 and 80,000 years ago were followed by significant migrations out of Africa approximately 60,000 years ago, which ultimately led to the genetic evolution of modern human populations.”

“There is a substantial lack of fossil data from the period corresponding to the large-scale migration out of Africa, which leaves many questions unanswered regarding homo sapiens.”

“Key questions focus on the tempo, mode, and behavioral context of interactions between homo sapiens and homo neanderthalensis.”

“The Levant remains one of the few regions where both modern humans and Neanderthals coexisted.”

In the Üçağızlı II cave, located in the northern tip of the Levant near the Orontes River, archaeologists uncovered an intricate series of artifacts, including teeth, stone tools, animal remains, and shells, dating from approximately 77,000 to 47,000 years ago.

Teeth analysis indicated that the oldest layer (77,000 to 59,000 years ago) contained Neanderthal dentition, while the upper layer (59,000 to 47,000 years ago) held early human remains attributed to homo sapiens.

What fascinated archaeologists was not merely the change in species but the persistence of behavioral patterns.

Both Neanderthals and modern humans crafted remarkably similar stone tools influenced by the Middle Paleolithic, or Mousterian, tradition, employed similar hunting methods for wild goats, fallow deer, roe deer, and wild boar, and collected the same marine snail shells, Columbella rustica, likely utilized for decoration rather than sustenance.

Some of these shells displayed indications of intentional perforations or color alterations from heat exposure, implying that both species regarded shells as symbolic or decorative items rather than food sources.

Carved stone artifacts and other manuports (objects brought to the site but not utilized) were also present throughout the site, revealing shared traditions across species.

“Our findings illustrate a profound level of cultural interchange,” emphasized Dr. Morimoto.

“These two distinct yet closely related human groups were not only adapted to the same environment but likely shared symbolic values.”

The researchers assert that their results differ markedly from patterns seen at other archaeological sites, such as France’s Mandolin Cave, where distinct layers show alternating settlements of modern humans and Neanderthals.

In contrast, Üçağızlı II cave exhibits cultural continuity that transcends biological change, indicating ongoing close interactions between the two species in this region.

“The findings from Üçağızlı II cave fill significant gaps in global archaeological and paleontological records and have the potential to transform our understanding of how early human species interacted, communicated, and shared their environments,” the scientists concluded.

Discover the full findings in the upcoming issue of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

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Ismail Baykara and colleagues. 2026. Long-term cultural continuity from Neanderthals to modern humans in Üçağızlı II cave in the northern Levant. PNAS 123 (29): e2609061123; doi: 10.1073/pnas.2609061123

Source: www.sci.news

New Research Reveals Ancient Americans as Specialized Hunters of Large Animals

Posted on July 7, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

A recent study reveals that the earliest human cultures in the Americas were not simply opportunistic foragers. Instead, they were specialized big game hunters who dedicated their lives to hunting large animals like mammoths, elephant-like gomphotheres, and giant ground sloths—true Ice Age giants.

Paleoindians hunting glyptodonts, relatives of armadillos from the Pleistocene. Illustrated by Heinrich Harder, 1920.

For decades, archaeologists have debated whether Paleoindians focused on hunting megafauna or adopted a generalist lifestyle, consuming a diverse diet that included small game, fish, plants, and shellfish based on their environment.

In recent years, many scientists have leaned toward a generalist perspective. However, a new study led by the University of Alaska Fairbanks contradicts this notion.

Ben Potter, a professor at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, stated, “One of the competing theories is dietary generalization, which advocates for utilizing a wide variety of resources varying by region.”

“The other theory posits megafauna specialization, concentrating on a select few large-bodied prey.”

In this groundbreaking study, researchers analyzed 50 sites across three regions: Eastern Beringia (ancient Alaska, circa 14,000 to 13,300 years ago), the Clovis Culture of North America (approximately 13,400 to 12,800 years ago), and the Fishtail Projectile Point Culture of South America (roughly 12,900 to 11,600 years ago).

Together, these cultures represent the oldest known human societies extending across the Western Hemisphere.

By assessing factors such as species richness, minimum population size, and edible biomass, scientists discovered that megafauna constituted 83% to 88% of the meat and fat consumed by these groups.

Woolly mammoths dominated Beringia diets, while Columbian mammoths were prevalent in North America, and giant ground sloths along with gomphotheres were staples in South America.

While small animals were present in many locales, they provided minimal nutritional value.

“Evaluating culinary expertise involves more than identifying the number of specific animals at ancient campsites,” notes Professor Potter.

“If early humans were dietary generalists, the most common animals would be reflected more frequently in their campsites.”

“Mammoths and ground sloths were relatively rare in the environment, yet they dominate the archaeological record.”

“Conversely, rabbits and rats, despite being numerous, are seldom found in the record.”

The authors also cite independent evidence: chemical analysis of the Clovis-era child, Anzick-1, showed that about 96% of the mother’s proteins were derived from megafauna, primarily mammoths.

In addition to their diets, these early groups exhibited traits characteristic of professional hunters. They led highly mobile lifestyles rather than establishing fixed homesteads, and there was scant evidence of plant-processing tools such as grindstones.

Maps and dietary analysis illustrating how three Paleoindian cultures, East Beringian, Clovis, and Fishtail Projectile Point, specialized in hunting megaherbivores across the Western Hemisphere from about 14,000 to 11,600 years ago. Image credit: Ben Potter.

Professor Potter elaborated: “The focus on large edible herbivores explains the remarkable similarity in early toolkits found from California to Maine and across South America.”

“Hunters targeting the same type of animals across vastly different landscapes did not need to modify their methods to adapt to local conditions.”

“Archaeological findings included tools specifically designed for hunting large game, such as large fluted projectiles and specialized equipment for slaughtering.”

There was a significant absence of fishing tools and implements for processing plants.

This emphasis on large prey facilitated the rapid human expansion from Alaska to South America.

Typically, when hunter-gatherers venture into unfamiliar regions, it can take many generations to fully understand the local terrain, hunt smaller game, and identify edible plants. However, relying on large mammals alters this dynamic.

“Mammoths, for instance, were widespread, traversing vast territories,” stated Matt Uhler, a professor at the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

“In effect, expert hunter-gatherers utilized their knowledge of megaherbivores like mammoths to expand across continents faster than they would have if they had to learn about every local ecosystem.”

The researchers hypothesize that this specialization in hunting large herbivores may have significantly impacted ecological networks, contributing to the mass extinction of Ice Age megafauna as these cultures migrated southward.

Mammoths and horses vanished from Alaska around 13,300 years ago, coinciding with the earliest known human occupations.

In North America, Clovis-era megafauna disappeared by 12,800 years, while gomphotheres and giant ground sloths lingered in South America until approximately 11,600 years ago.

“This pattern of arrival, proliferation, and extinction may have repeated itself, each time progressing further south, making a compelling case for human hunting as the primary catalyst for megafauna extinctions, with climate change possibly exacerbating the situation,” Professor Potter concluded.

“Megaherbivores reproduce slowly, occupy expansive territories, and lack natural predators as adults.”

“They likely did not possess the learned wariness that technologically advanced hunter-gatherers exhibited.”

For more information, see the study published in the Journal on July 1, 2026, in Scientific Progress.

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Ben A. Potter et al. 2026. Hemispheric-scale evidence for early Paleoindian megaherbivore specialization. Scientific Progress 12(27); doi: 10.1126/sciadv.aef9628

Source: www.sci.news

3I/ATLAS Interstellar Comet: Likely Origins from the Outskirts of an Ancient Planetary System

Posted on July 6, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers utilizing ESO’s Very Large Telescope (VLT) have measured the carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios of 3I/ATLAS, the third known interstellar visitor to pass through our solar system. Their findings indicate that interstellar comets likely formed in the frigid outer regions of protoplanetary disks surrounding significantly older and less metal-rich stars than our Sun.

This image depicts a portion of the spectrum of interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS captured by ESO’s Very Large Telescope’s UVES instrument in December 2025. Image credit: ESO / C. Opitom / Manfroid others / O. Hainaut.

3I/ATLAS is just the third interstellar object ever documented, following 1I/’Oumuamua in 2017 and 2I/Borisov in 2019. Its brightness allowed for isotopic measurements that were not feasible with its predecessors.

“Interstellar objects originating from planetary systems beyond our own present a unique chance to explore materials formed in various protoplanetary disks, each likely experiencing distinct physical and chemical conditions,” stated Dr. Ciriel Opitom, an astronomer at the University of Edinburgh.

“When such an object becomes active and sublimates, the resulting gas can be analyzed spectroscopically, enabling direct determination of its volatile composition and isotopic ratios.”

“Isotope ratios serve as vital tools for tracing the origins and evolutionary pathways of different species.”

“Given that the fractionation process is influenced by temperature and radiation environments, isotopic ratios can map the chemical evolution of materials from the prestellar phase to fully formed planets and planetesimals.”

Dr. Opitom and his collaborators observed 3I/ATLAS from December 6 to 26, 2025, following its closest approach to the Sun.

Using the VLT’s Ultraviolet-Visible Echelle Spectrometer (UVES), they examined emissions from cyanide (CN), a molecule frequently found in comet atmospheres, and measured the carbon to nitrogen isotope ratios.

The carbon isotope ratio (carbon-12/carbon-13) was approximately 151, while the nitrogen isotope ratio (nitrogen-14/nitrogen-15) was around 363.

In contrast, most solar system comets possess carbon isotope ratios near 90 and nitrogen isotope ratios close to 150.

This image of interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS was captured on January 18, 2026, using the FORS2 instrument aboard ESO’s Very Large Telescope. Image credit: ESO/O. Hainaut.

“3I/ATLAS presents an exciting opportunity to investigate the composition of other planetary systems that formed long before our Sun and Solar System came into existence,” noted Dr. Rosemary Dorsey, an astronomer at the University of Helsinki.

The elevated nitrogen ratio in 3I/ATLAS aligns with the hypothesis that it formed far from its parent star, where the effectiveness of isotope-selective chemistry diminishes.

Chemical evolution models of galaxies suggest that older, metal-poor stars yield planetary materials rich in carbon-12 compared to carbon-13.

The astronomers’ high carbon ratio measurement aligns with these predictions, corroborating previous findings indicating that comets originated around ancient stars relatively deficient in heavy elements.

“The nitrogen-14/nitrogen-15 ratio exceeds the typical value of 150 found in solar system comets, approaching values observed in the interstellar medium, prestellar phases, or outside protoplanetary disks,” the researchers stated.

“The carbon-12/carbon-13 ratio also surpasses commonly measured figures in solar system comets and the local interstellar medium.”

“These measurements support the theory that 3I/ATLAS originated in the outer disk surrounding older, less metallic stars, offering potential insights into planetesimal formation efficiency around such stars.”

For further details, the team’s study is published in today’s issue of Nature Astronomy.

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C. Opitom others. High isotope ratios of nitrogen and carbon in interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS. Nat Astron published online on July 6, 2026. doi: 10.1038/s41550-026-02921-7

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Source: www.sci.news

Hubble Explores 13 Billion-Year-Old Globular Cluster: Insights from the Universe’s Ancient Treasures

Posted on July 6, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers employing the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope have obtained a stunning image of NGC 6426, an ancient globular star cluster located in the outer halo of the Milky Way galaxy. This remarkable object contains two distinct generations of stars, serving as a cosmic time capsule from an era when the universe was still forming its heaviest elements.

This Hubble image showcases the globular cluster NGC 6426 located about 67,000 light-years away in the constellation Ophiuchus. Image credits: NASA / ESA / A. Dotter, Dartmouth College / Gladys Kober, NASA and The Catholic University of America.

NGC 6426 is situated approximately 67,000 light-years from Earth, at the celestial equator within the constellation Ophiuchus.

This globular cluster, also referred to as C 1742+031 or GCl 76, was discovered by German-British astronomer William Herschel on June 3, 1786.

Estimated to be around 13 billion years old, NGC 6426 formed only a few hundred million years after the Big Bang. Given that the universe is about 13.8 billion years old, this cluster encapsulates evidence of conditions that existed in the early universe.

Unlike many clusters, NGC 6426 traverses the sparse outer halo of the Milky Way rather than orbiting within the galaxy’s disk.

Initially thought to consist solely of contemporaneous stars, advanced high-resolution spectroscopy has revealed that NGC 6426 may harbor two distinct generations of stars.

“NGC 6426 is a collection of globular stars bound by their mutual gravity and ranks among the 150 known globular clusters in the Milky Way,” Hubble astronomers stated.

“These star groups are believed to have formed from the same collapsing gas cloud, often resulting in stars of similar ages. Stars in globular clusters are generally quite old.”

“At approximately 13 billion years old, NGC 6426 ranks as one of the oldest globular clusters in the Milky Way, almost as ancient as the universe itself.”

Astronomers utilized the Hubble Telescope to capture images of NGC 6426 as part of their research on globular star clusters within the Milky Way halo.

“In this image, blue represents shorter wavelengths of visible light, while red signifies longer wavelengths and some near-infrared light,” they explained.

“The colors in Hubble images are processed to accurately depict the wavelengths of light that pass through the sensors used during observations.”

“There exists a direct relationship between a star’s color and its temperature; hence, the blue stars in this image are hotter compared to the cooler red stars.”

The stars in NGC 6426 exhibit low metallicity, indicating a scarcity of elements heavier than hydrogen or helium.

“These conditions mirror those of the early universe, a time when matter predominantly consisted of helium and hydrogen, with heavier elements beginning to emerge through nuclear fusion within massive stars.”

Source: www.sci.news

Scientists Extract Ancient Human DNA from Cave Walls: A Breakthrough in Archaeological Research

Posted on July 2, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

For the first time in history, researchers have successfully extracted ancient human DNA directly from cave walls. While their findings do not definitively connect ancient DNA preservation to the creation of cave art, they reveal that traces of human DNA can persist on cave surfaces for thousands of years.

Representative rock art from 11 sites analyzed by Bossams Mesa et al. Image credit: Bossoms Mesa et al. 10.1038/s41467-026-74234-2.

A significant challenge in human prehistory research is linking cultural artifacts to the groups that created them.

Ancient DNA studies have bridged this gap by analyzing DNA from skeletons, sediments, and increasingly, from the artifacts themselves.

However, rock art—crucial to understanding human culture—has typically eluded paleogenetic analysis due to its lack of direct connection to excavated cave floors.

This limitation has hindered discussions about authorship, including debates on whether Neanderthals were responsible for rock art alongside early modern humans.

“Some of the art was applied to cave walls by spraying or rubbing pigments onto the surface,” explained Dr. Hipolito Collado Giraldo, an archaeologist and rock art expert for the Extremadura government in Spain.

“Given the extreme sensitivity of current DNA analysis techniques, we aimed to determine whether this contact could leave DNA traces in the rock art, potentially revealing the genetic profiles of its creators.”

Dr. Corrado Giraldo and a team from Germany, Spain, and Portugal assessed the DNA preservation of pigment samples collected from 24 rock art panels in 11 caves across Spain and Portugal.

The paintings, primarily in red ocher, featured simple marks (from nine locations), dots, hand-drawn stencils (Cave of Maltraviso, Spain), and figurative images (Cave of Altamira, Spain).

The team also analyzed unpainted sections of the cave walls, sediments, animal bones, and bird bone fragments used for spraying pigments.

The most promising results were found in the Escoural Cave in Portugal, where samples taken from colored calcite shells unexpectedly yielded genetic material from one or more humans, with no animal DNA detected.

Similar findings emerged from the uncolored wall samples taken in the same cave.

Considering that sediments and environmental sources typically contain diverse animal DNA, the researchers concluded that the human DNA found in Escoural Cave likely originated from direct contact rather than surrounding soil.

Samples from Escoural and three unpigmented wall samples from Covalón Cave in Asturias revealed mixed human and animal DNA, indicating indirect routes of contact, like people transporting sediment on their hands and feet.

In Cobaron, genetic analysis of two wall samples linked their DNA to Western hunter-gatherers who lived in Europe approximately 5,200 to 16,700 years ago, showing probable female origins. Another wall sample from Escoural Cave indicated a male source.

Despite extensive research, usable ancient human DNA was recovered from only one of the 24 painted panels, and none from the airbrushed pigment of Altamira’s bird bones. This suggests that protected pigmented cave surfaces hold minimal detectable genetic material over extended periods.

Consequently, the study could not substantiate who created the paintings, including whether the DNA near the Escoural pigments belonged to the artist or resulted from unrelated human activity in the cave.

“While we cannot conclusively link the ancient human DNA found to the creation of rock art, this is the first evidence that human DNA has been preserved on cave walls for thousands of years,” noted Alba Bossams Mesa, a postdoctoral researcher at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology.

“It’s exciting to think we may have discovered a novel approach to studying prehistoric human existence.”

“This study fundamentally alters our understanding of where ancient DNA can be located,” said paleogeneticist Dr. Matthias Mayer of the Max Planck Institute.

“We were surprised to discover that ancient DNA is recoverable not just from pigment samples but also from cave walls with no visible evidence of prior human activity.”

“The preserved human DNA on cave walls exhibits significant diversity,” Bossams-Mesa shared.

“When this DNA survives, it tells a compelling narrative. While these initial findings are promising, our priority is to enhance our methods and identify conditions favorable for higher success rates.”

“This is just the beginning. We now understand that cave walls serve as genetic archives of past human existence,” Dr. Meyer confirmed.

“The next phase involves testing additional locations, art styles, and techniques that minimally invasive sampling allows, especially focusing on hand-painted stencils and figurative art in well-preserved caves.”

“With ongoing research, we may uncover the identities of some cave painting creators. It may even lead us to identify the faces, or at least the genetic profiles, of the artists behind these works.”

The findings were documented in a research paper published in Nature Communications on June 23rd.

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A. Bossams Mesa et al. 2026. Investigating ancient human DNA left on cave walls and rock paintings. Nat Commun 17, 5561;doi: 10.1038/s41467-026-74234-2

Source: www.sci.news

Discovering the Origins of Spider Fangs: Tracing Ancient Marine Life Back to 518 Million Years Ago

Posted on July 1, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Urocodia equalis

is an early Cambrian marine predator from China’s Chengjiang biota, notable for preserving the earliest evidence of chelicerae. This unique structure is a precursor to the fangs of spiders and pincers of scorpions.

Artist’s impression of Urocodia equalis, a marine predator that roamed Cambrian seas around 518 million years ago. Image credit: Xiaodong Wang.

Spiders, scorpions, and ticks belong to a significant group of invertebrates known as chelicerates, which includes over 100,000 described species.

Characterized by articulated limbs and an external skeleton, these creatures are particularly known for their specialized limbs, called chelicerae, used for capturing prey.

The earliest fossil records of chelicerae emerged not from terrestrial habitats but from marine organisms inhabiting Cambrian seas over 500 million years ago.

In a groundbreaking study, paleontologists examined Urocodia equalis from the renowned Chengjiang Fossil Site in Yunnan Province, China.

This diminutive creature measures just 2 to 3 centimeters and features large, stalked eyes, a segmented skeleton, and articulated limbs extending from its elongated body.

“The Urocodia equalis was part of an ancient ecosystem with over 200 species thriving in the ocean more than 500 million years ago,” stated Professor Mark Williams from the University of Leicester.

“These excellently preserved fossils offer invaluable insights into the early evolution of life on Earth.”

Utilizing X-ray tomography, Professor Williams and his team conducted an in-depth analysis of Urocodia equalis, uncovering much of its soft tissue still intact.

The scans revealed small, scissor-like limbs located behind the eyes, representing an early evolutionary version of the chelicerae that later developed into the fangs of spiders and pincers of scorpions.

“During our X-ray tomography analysis, we discovered soft anatomy that had remained buried for millions of years, including these fascinating scissor-like limbs,” remarked Professor Yu Liu, a paleontologist at Yunnan University and the University of Leicester.

“This fossil is particularly intriguing as it is a distant ancestor of chelicerates like scorpions and spiders.”

Urocodia equalis‘s legs also exhibit features similar to gills, a respiratory adaptation still observed in modern horseshoe crabs.

This discovery extends the fossil record of this unique trait, providing a rare glimpse into the origins of one of evolution’s most successful hunting adaptations that emerged in ancient oceans.

“Urocodia equalis has a seven-segmented head with a sclerotized lower mouth, pincer-like appendages, and bilobed body appendages equipped with overlapping exit valves,” noted the paleontologists.

“These scissor-like appendages illustrate a transitional structure between a multi-segmented appendage and a true chelicera; mega keiran represents the origin of book gills.”

Further details of these findings are published in the latest issue of Nature.

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Y. Liu et al., Urokodia: Shedding light on the origin of chelicerae and their book gills. Nature, published online July 1, 2026. doi: 10.1038/s41586-026-10713-2

Source: www.sci.news

Exploring Brazil’s Ancient History: 240 Million Years Ago, a Crocodile Ancestor Invaded

Posted on June 26, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists in Brazil have discovered a previously unknown archosauroid species that thrived approximately 240 million years ago. This intriguing species may belong to a little-understood group of ancient reptiles reminiscent of the ancestors of crocodiles and dinosaurs.

Reconstruction of Silescerida acristatata. Image credit: Mateus Fernández Gadelha.

Silescerida acristatata resided in what is now Brazil during the Middle Triassic Period, a crucial time when life on Earth was diversifying following the mass extinction at the end of the Permian Period.

During this era, archosaurs—a diverse group of reptiles that eventually evolved into dinosaurs, pterosaurs, and crocodiles—began to dominate terrestrial ecosystems.

The newly discovered species is likely linked to a rare and poorly understood group known as Euparkeriidae.

Among the most recognized species of Euparkeriidae is Eupacheria capensis, first described in South Africa in 1913 and remains the sole definitive member of this intriguing group.

“The Euparkeriidae are primarily noted for their distinctive stalked archosaurs. Eupacheria capensis existed during the Early to Middle Triassic in South Africa and is the only established member of this clade,” stated lead author Mauricio García from the Federal University of Santa Maria and his colleagues.

“Other presumed euparckerids have been found in regions across China and Europe.”

“Eupacheria capensis and Euparkeriidae rank just outside of archosaurs in all major phylogenetic analyses, highlighting their significance in understanding archosaur origins.”

“This species, along with other potential euparkerids, holds substantial implications for understanding the evolutionary trajectory of archosaurs, as it closely resembles the body plan of archosaur ancestors.”

The skeletal remains of Silescerida acristatata, including its left shoulder blade, right hip bone, and a left femur measuring around 17.3 cm in length, were discovered at a site in Doña Francisca, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.

Based on examinations with related species, the new find likely resembled a long-limbed, agile lizard-like predator.

The discovery of Silescerida acristatata broadens the known geographical range of the Euparkeriidae lineage, and reaffirms South America’s vital role in the early evolution of archosaurs.

“This discovery not only provides insight into the temporal and paleogeographical distribution of Euparkeriidae but also illuminates the origin and early evolution of this family. Eucrocopodan represents the first record of this archosaur in the Brazilian Triassic,” concluded the paleontologists.

“More broadly, this new species underscores the significance of South American Triassic deposits in the evolutionary history of archosaurs.”

The team’s research paper was published in the journal Scientific Reports on June 10th.

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García, M. S., et al. 2026. A new euparkeriid form from the mid-Triassic period of southern Brazil, a member of the family Euparkeriidae. Scientific Reports 16, 16585; doi: 10.1038/s41598-026-53740-9

Source: www.sci.news

First Discovery of Ancient Human DNA in Cave Paintings: Insights into Our Ancestry

Posted on June 26, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Samples Collected from Rock Art in Tiberin, Spain

Avamia Archeos Alberto Martinez Villa

Ancient Rock Art Research — Samples Collected from Rock Art in Tiberin, Spain

Avamia Archeos Alberto Martinez Villa

A groundbreaking study conducted in the caves of Spain and Portugal reveals that ancient human DNA can persist for thousands of years on the surfaces of cave walls and rock art. This monumental discovery offers new insights into prehistoric humans and poses intriguing questions about whether Neanderthals engaged in cave painting.

“It’s the beginning of a new era,” says Genevieve von Petzinger, a researcher from the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa. “This allows us to potentially connect with the actual artist who created these remarkable works. It’s truly extraordinary.”

From 2022 to 2025, the First Art Project focused on dating the oldest cave paintings, collecting samples from 11 caves across Spain and Portugal featuring rock art. These paintings, believed to be among the earliest known forms, include graphic images such as triangles, dots, and hand stencils executed with red ocher paint. Researchers extracted small shavings of paint and calcite layers formed on cave walls via mineral precipitation.

Given that cave art is typically crafted using tools like fingers or by spitting paint, the researchers aimed to determine if the DNA of the artists had been preserved. While ancient human DNA has been known to exist in cave sediments, its presence on cave walls was previously undocumented.

This changed with the significant discovery of ancient human DNA in red spots that resemble semicolons within Portugal’s Escur Cave.

“It was a pleasant surprise,” notes Alba Bossams Mesa, from the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany. “This is the first instance of ancient human DNA being identified on a cave wall. However, I cannot definitively conclude that this DNA belongs to the artist.” Bossams-Mesa adds, “It could be from someone who encountered the artwork at a later time, or perhaps even someone who merely sneezed.”

Nevertheless, this opens up exciting possibilities for identifying the creators of the artwork. “It’s as if the cave walls have transformed into the pages of an unfinished book, gradually filled with new discoveries,” states Hipolito Collado Giraldo, an Archaeologist from the government of Extremadura, Spain.

Pigment Samples Collected from Spain’s Altamira Cave Ceiling

Matthias Meyer

Another unexpected finding emerged when researchers sampled a control area of the cave wall devoid of artifacts, where they also discovered ancient human DNA. This genetic material likely originated from prehistoric visitors who touched the walls. “We were genuinely surprised,” says Corrado Giraldo. This suggests that even where cave paintings or archaeological items are absent, cave walls can unveil critical insights about ancient humans who frequented these sites.

Furthermore, the findings indicated that the DNA found on the walls of Escoral Cave came from direct contact with ancient humans, rather than sediment that had settled on the walls. In contrast to mixed animal DNA found in cave sediments, the genetic material on the Escoral walls solely consisted of human DNA.

The ancient DNA also provided intriguing insights into the individuals from whom it originated: three samples were primarily female and one was male. This genetic profile aligns closely with a group historically known as Western hunter-gatherers, dating from approximately 5,200 to 17,000 years ago.

Though the recovered DNA is insufficient for precise dating, it is known that Escoral Cave had been sealed off for the past 4,000 to 5,000 years, indicating the genetic material may be older.

This research marks only the beginning. Earlier this month, First Art researchers, including von Petzinger and Corrado Giraldo, conducted thorough sampling at various other caves in Spain, such as Nerja and Aldales, which are linked to Neanderthal art, although that connection remains contentious. “One question I am eager to explore is whether Neanderthals created art,” remarks Bossams-Mesa.

The potential of extracting ancient DNA from cave walls could revolutionize our understanding of ancient humans and their artistic expressions, asserts Francesco d’Errico from the University of Bordeaux, who was not associated with the study. “Did the artist identify as male, female, or perhaps even an animal? Were the drawings on the same panel crafted by the same individual? Will Neanderthal DNA eventually be discovered in the ancient paintings of the Iberian Peninsula, or does the hand stencil found in Indonesia contain Denisovan DNA? The possibilities are vast.”

However, ancient DNA was discovered in only one of the 24 rock art panels sampled, indicating that preservation may be more of an exception than a standard practice. “Currently, the success rate is quite low,” Bossams-Mesa observes. This may improve as researchers polish their methodologies for extracting minimal quantities of DNA from cave samples.

Corrado Giraldo expresses excitement about uncovering valuable information without the need for excavations, which can be destructive in nature. “Excavation inherently alters parts of the archaeological record,” he explains. “This groundbreaking discovery opens avenues for uncovering and reconstructing entirely new narratives without excavation—narratives that deepen our understanding of past peoples and societies.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Ancient DNA Reveals Final Secrets of Neanderthal Existence in Northwestern Europe

Posted on June 26, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Recent studies have successfully sequenced genetic data from 27 Neanderthals residing in Belgium and France, dating back approximately 52,500 years. This groundbreaking research unveils unexpected insights into the lives of our closest human relatives before their extinction.

Neanderthal reconstruction. Image credit: Neanderthal Museum.

Neanderthals thrived in Europe and western Asia from at least 430,000 years ago until about 40,000 years ago.

The analysis of high-quality nuclear genomes from four Neanderthals presents significant insights into their diversity, population history, and interactions with early modern humans.

Comparative studies of more recent Neanderthals from Croatia (45,000 years ago) indicate greater genetic diversity and less evidence of inbreeding, in contrast to older specimens from Denisova and Chagyrskaya caves (dating back 120,000 years, around 110,000 years, and about 60,000 years), located at the eastern extent of the Neanderthal range.

Moreover, the genomic data suggests a striking genetic similarity among late Neanderthals, indicating potential long-distance connections between individuals from geographically remote regions such as Mezmaiskaya in the Caucasus and Les Côtés in France.

“Previously, we had only four high-quality Neanderthal genomes and a limited number of less informative genomes, making it challenging to address various questions about Neanderthal regional diversity,” explains Alba Bossams-Mesa, a postdoctoral researcher at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology.

“By generating genetic data from multiple individuals in present-day Belgium and France, we can now explore late Neanderthal populations with greater detail.”

This research study involved recovering genetic material from 26 Neanderthals located in Belgium and France.

Researchers also sequenced a high-quality genome from a 45,000-year-old Neanderthal man uncovered in Belgium’s Goyet Cave, marking it as the fifth detailed Neanderthal genome ever produced.

In contrast to previously studied Neanderthals from the Altai region of Siberia, which displayed signs of interbreeding among close relatives, the Belgian Neanderthals showed no such genetic traits.

The findings reveal that most Neanderthals in Belgium and France shared closer genetic ties to one another than to their contemporaneous counterparts in other European regions, while also indicating the presence of distinct regional populations that maintained broader connections across the continent.

Dr. Benjamin Peter, also affiliated with the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, stated, “Our findings suggest that the circumstances observed in one area cannot be applied universally to all Neanderthals.”

“Late Neanderthals from northwestern Europe appear to have been part of a connected regional population rather than isolated groups interbreeding frequently.”

Despite modern humans having arrived in the region around 47,000 years ago, the Neanderthal genome revealed no traces of recent human DNA.

“These findings amplifiy the notable imbalance,” Bossams-Mesa noted.

“While early modern humans appear to carry Neanderthal ancestry, to date we have found no clear signs of modern human ancestry in late Neanderthals.”

Researchers also evaluated the hypothesis that Neanderthals gradually weakened due to accumulating genetic defects. By comparing early and late Neanderthals, they found no significant increase in harmful mutations over time, challenging the notion that genetic decline contributed to Neanderthal extinction.

The ultimate cause of Neanderthal extinction remains uncertain.

Nonetheless, this study illustrates that, at least in northwestern Europe, the last millennia were not characterized by biological decline.

Dr. Janet Kelso from the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology remarked, “This study underscores the capability of ancient DNA to reveal finer variations within Neanderthals than previously achievable.”

“Instead of perceiving Late Neanderthals as a homogeneous declining population, we are beginning to appreciate a more intricate landscape of regional diversity, connectivity, and population history.”

For more insights, refer to the findings published in this week’s issue of Nature.

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A. Bossams Mesa et al. Genetic diversity of late Neanderthals in northwest Europe. Nature, published online June 24, 2026. doi: 10.1038/s41586-026-10625-1

Source: www.sci.news

Ancient Philosophers’ Hidden Writings Rediscovered from ‘Unreadable’ Scrolls

Posted on June 25, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Rediscovered Carbonized Scroll from Herculaneum Utilizing Advanced Imaging Technology

Paolo Verzone/National Geographic

Carbonized scroll from Herculaneum — Rediscovered Carbonized Scroll from Herculaneum Utilizing Advanced Imaging Technology

Paolo Verzone/National Geographic

A remarkable ancient philosophical manuscript has resurfaced from a papyrus scroll, previously deemed unreadable due to the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. For the first time, researchers have harnessed AI to extract the entire remaining text from an ultra-high-resolution 3D scan of the scroll without the need for physical unrolling.

The scrolls were excavated from the library at Herculaneum, buried alongside Pompeii approximately 2,000 years ago. Since the library’s discovery in 1752, scholars have endeavored to read these charred relics resembling lumps of charcoal. However, attempting to physically open them poses a risk of irreversible damage, and the ink is nearly indistinguishable from the charred papyrus to the naked eye.

Beginning in 2023, the Vesuvius Challenge employed a particle accelerator to scan multiple scrolls, sharing the results with a collaborative online community. This collective effort culminated in AI software capable of digitally opening the scroll and detecting remnants of ink, facilitating easier reading of titles, authors, and excerpts.

This time, the research team unveiled a 1.5-meter-long text inscribed in 22 columns on a 2-centimeter-wide core, with its outer layer having been meticulously removed over centuries for reading.

“I found a record that I attempted to open multiple times but could not decipher,” states Federica Nicolaardi from Federico II University of Naples, Italy. “Some fragments remain from earlier attempts to physically open it, revealing only a few visible letters. Yet through virtual opening, we are reshaping the historical narrative surrounding this papyrus.”

Scrolls co-founders of the Vesuvius Challenge, such as Brent Shields from the University of Kentucky, refer to this scroll as the “Impossible Scroll.” This scroll represents just one among hundreds of texts that withstood early papyrus scholars’ simplifications.

Shields explains that the combination of high-resolution imaging, reaching down to 2 micrometers, and extensive scanning data enables the discovery of lengthy passages within scrolls that were once thought unreadable.

Currently, the AI models adapt to specific scrolls based on variations like ink composition. Shields expresses optimism that with enough exposure, the AI will eventually uncover ink within these ancient texts. “We are leveraging large-scale language models for this task,” he adds, “yet we have not fully transitioned this technology for scroll analysis.”

The uncovered texts delve into themes of ethics, art, and humanity, with numerous references to Stoic doctrines. This aligns with second-century B.C. literature and suggests that Chrysippus, the Greek Stoic philosopher, is likely the author, as noted by Nicolaardi.

Chrysippus is regarded as a foundational figure in Stoicism, yet nearly all of his works have been lost to time. According to classical scholars like Thomas Coward from the University of Bristol, we mainly recognize him through others’ often critical works.

“Accessing the original text, rather than fragments or interpretations by others, is pivotal,” he states, comparing this breakthrough to the rediscovery of lost works by luminaries like Isaac Newton or Albert Einstein that only exist through references from other scientists.

Text from the philosopher Philodemus Found Within the Herculaneum Scrolls

Vesuvius Challenge

Among Chrysippus’ critics was Philodemus, a lesser-known Epicurean philosopher of the first century, whose work resides within the Library of Herculaneum, financed by its presumed owner, Lucius Calpurnius Piso Caesoninus, Julius Caesar’s father-in-law.

Another scroll deciphered through scanning has been recognized as About God, Volume 8, an expanded version of Philodemus’s previously known work, About God, Volume 1, which is part of a series of eight texts.

This extraordinary discovery signifies a major leap forward in computational techniques related to image processing and digital unwrapping. Nicholas Freer, a professor at Newcastle University, UK, believes this technology holds the potential to “transform our understanding” of the ancient world.

“These advancements are crucial because hundreds of scrolls remain unopened,” he emphasizes. “What we’re witnessing is not merely a single groundbreaking moment, but the onset of a long-term recovery process that could span decades.”

For Shields, who has devoted decades to developing digital unwrapping technology, this discovery marks a pivotal transition from focusing solely on the technology’s efficacy to emphasizing the scrolls’ content and historical significance.

“What the public will care about now are the names that emerge, the scrolls’ ages, and their philosophical insights,” he remarks. “While we aim to automate tasks, our ultimate goal is to resurrect the voices of the past.”

If Shields has any regrets, it’s that numerous scrolls were lost before he could access them. “What was excavated in 1752, particularly the original scrolls, I believe we will soon be reading,” he states, “as they were among the easiest to decipher.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Evidence of Ancient Life on Mars: Complex Carbon Discoveries Revealed

Posted on June 25, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

NASA’s Perseverance Mars rover stands beside a rock with markings resembling microbial features.

NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS

NASA's Perseverance Mars rover beside a rock resembling microbial features — NASA’s Perseverance Mars rover stands beside a rock with markings resembling microbial features.

NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS

NASA’s Perseverance rover has made a groundbreaking discovery of complex carbon compounds within a Martian crater, a site previously indicated as potentially harboring ancient life. On Earth, these compounds are often associated with biological remnants; however, scientists caution against jumping to conclusions, as such compounds can also emerge from non-living environments like meteorites.

In 2024, Perseverance explored a rocky outcrop named Bright Angel, located near what seems to be an ancient riverbed that once nourished a lake in Jezero Crater. Distinct mottling patterns observed on some rocks, dubbed “leopard spots” or “poppy seeds” by NASA scientists, comprise dark circular blotches measuring up to 1 millimeter in size. These patterns closely mimic those associated with ancient microbial activity on Earth.

While the possibility of abiotic origins remains, these signatures present some of the most compelling evidence for ancient life on Mars. However, comprehensive data regarding the chemical makeup and distribution of these patterns within the Bright Angel Formation was still lacking.

Equipped with advanced measurement tools, Perseverance is capable of providing crucial chemical insights about the rocks it examines, including the SHERLOC instrument. This tool uses ultraviolet laser reflections to identify elements and compounds present in rock samples.

According to Ashley Murphy, researchers at the Planetary Science Institute in Tucson, Arizona, utilized SHERLOC to detect large, complex carbon-containing molecules, known as polymeric carbon, on the surfaces of marked rocks within the Bright Angel Formation.

“On Earth, polymeric carbon is typically found in ancient rocks and can serve as a key indicator of past microbial life,” Murphy explains. “Identifying these organic macromolecules on Mars and other celestial bodies can enhance our understanding of the conditions that may once supported life.”

However, the finding of these carbon compounds does not automatically imply a biological origin, as they are also frequently discovered in meteorites, notes Lewis Dartnell from the University of Westminster, London. Murphy’s team also found that these compounds are linked to essential life-supporting minerals: carbonates and sulfates, which typically form in water-rich environments. “This context provides valuable insights into the geological environments where these organic materials exist,” Dartnell adds.

Jezero Crater is believed to have harbored abundant water at some point, making the presence of carbon compounds here consistent with expectations, according to team members like Kyle Uckert at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California. However, it is noteworthy that polymeric carbon has never been documented on the surfaces of such rocks before, raising questions about its resilience and distinctive nature compared to other carbon compounds found on Mars.

“Its widespread presence in the Bright Angel mudstone was unexpected in relation to other observations throughout the crater,” Uckert said. The reasons for this anomaly remain unclear, but Dartnell suggests that it may be an encouraging signal for discovering additional evidence of ancient life. “This detection confirms the potential for complex organic materials like these polymeric deposits to endure over geological timescales.”

While the SHERLOC tool can identify polymeric carbon, it cannot ascertain the precise composition of a compound beyond indicating it is carbon-rich, according to Sean McMahon from the University of Edinburgh, UK. “To determine if the carbon in these rocks is biologically derived, we would need to return samples to Earth,” he states.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Exploring the Ancient and Universal Bond Between Humans and Dogs: Key Findings from Recent Study

Posted on June 24, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Recent research spanning five continents, from the steppes of Mongolia to the rainforests of the Pacific, reveals that hunting dogs and their owners share a remarkable bond. This study suggests that their cooperative relationship dates back approximately 30,000 years, highlighting deep evolutionary ties.

Examples of hunting dogs and human interaction across four non-WEIRD societies: (a) pointing in Mongolia, (b) problem-solving in Vanuatu, (c) demonstration in Mongolia, and (d) scenarios from Madagascar and Peru. Image credit: Bräuer et al., doi: 10.1038/s41598-026-57657-1.

Over the last 25 years, domestic dogs have increasingly become a significant focus of scientific research.

Throughout domestication, dogs have developed human-like communication skills essential for thriving in human environments.

Specifically, dogs excel in social communication, responding adeptly to human gestures and language. Their selection as cooperative partners during domestication has played a vital role in this evolution.

Extensive studies have examined dogs’ communication proficiency, including their response to human pointing, social referencing, and problem-solving abilities.

However, most findings have predominantly emerged from studies involving dogs from “WEIRD” (Western, Educated, Industrialized, Wealthy, Democratic) societies.

Dr. Julian Breuer, a cognitive psychologist at the University of Jena, emphasized the focus of their field study on hunting dogs, which necessitate deep collaboration between humans and their furry companions.

“This cooperation might have been critical in the domestication of dogs, marking them as the first domesticated animals in history,” noted Dr. Breuer.

To explore whether the dog-human bond is universal or influenced by culture, Dr. Breuer and his team assessed 164 dog-human pairs across culturally rich regions: Germany, Madagascar, Mongolia, Peru, and Vanuatu.

Standardized behavioral tests were performed to evaluate communication and cooperation between dogs and humans.

Remarkably, the findings revealed a strikingly similar relationship worldwide, indicating its roots in shared evolutionary history rather than cultural differences.

Across all regions, dogs demonstrated an understanding of human gestures, communicated actively with their owners, and relied significantly on their owners’ guidance in challenging situations.

Additionally, dog owners consistently described their pets as trusted companions, valuing their presence beyond mere working animals.

“While we anticipated notable cultural differences, we found the human-dog relationship to be surprisingly universal,” stated Dr. Breuer.

Despite these similarities, variations emerged, primarily influenced by environmental conditions and hunting methodologies.

For instance, hunters in Vanuatu displayed superior skills in interpreting dog signals compared to their counterparts in other regions.

In the South Pacific islands, dogs play a crucial role in tracking wild boars through thick underbrush, necessitating high levels of human-animal coordination.

Conversely, in Germany, dogs appear to be more reliant on their owners, responding consistently to signals likely due to more focused training approaches.

“Despite significant cultural and environmental contrasts, the relationship between dogs and humans is notably similar,” concluded the researchers.

Residual differences may arise from variations in hunting techniques and distinctions between queer and non-queer societies.

The findings of this research were published in a paper in the journal Scientific Reports.

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J. Breuer et al. 2026. Global similarities in dog-human interactions. Scientific Reports 16, 18527; doi: 10.1038/s41598-026-57657-1

Source: www.sci.news

Australia’s Ancient Giant Crater: Possible Oldest Impact Structure on Earth

Posted on June 24, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Exploring the Arctic Dome Crater Landscape in Western Australia

Credit: Curtin University

According to mineral dating techniques, a colossal crater in Western Australia was formed by an asteroid impact approximately 3 billion years ago. This discovery potentially marks the crater as the oldest impact site on Earth, although its age has been contested by some researchers.

Known as the Arctic Dome Crater or the Miralga Impact Structure, this feature was first documented by Chris Kirkland in 2025 at Curtin University in Perth. His team estimated the crater’s diameter could reach up to 100 kilometers.

Kirkland and his colleagues found a unique layer of rock featuring cone-shaped formations known as shatter cones, typically created by significant impacts like asteroid collisions. While their initial research did not directly date this rock layer, correlations with age-dated rocks in adjacent layers led them to propose an age of 3.47 billion years.

This proposed age surpasses the Yarrababa Crater’s age by over 1.2 billion years, establishing it as the oldest known impact site on Earth. Furthermore, it stands out as the only recognized impact structure from the Archean Era, a time when Earth predominantly existed as a vast ocean.

However, a competing analysis from another research team led by Aaron Cavosie at Curtin University disputes this 3.47 billion-year timeline, claiming that their findings suggest the impact occurred around 2.77 billion years ago.

In a new development, Kirkland and his team assert that they have accurately dated recrystallized minerals, including detrital cones at the crater site. Kirkland states, “We’ve now examined the rock to identify minerals that directly correspond to impacts, rather than relying solely on correlations.”

Utilizing the decay rate of uranium to lead, the researchers dated zircon within the shatter cone formed by the asteroid’s impact. They also dated apatite minerals believed to have developed in hydrothermal systems activated by impact-induced heat.

Both the apatite and zircon dated at approximately 3.02 billion years, providing strong evidence of intense hydrothermal activity in the rock around 3 billion years ago. Kirkland notes, “This indicates that hot water infiltrated the rock long ago, showcasing an unusual heating and recrystallization process.”

Rocks Within the Arctic Dome Crater

Credit: Curtin University

Kirkland emphasized that other geological processes, such as mountain building or localized metamorphism, cannot adequately explain the mineral changes observed in the shocked rocks. He states, “The only process strongly correlated with these mineralogical transformations is an impact.” He concludes, “The current evidence strongly supports a 3 billion-year-old impact, potentially marking this as the oldest impact crater on Earth.”

Kavosie appreciates the new adjustments to the crater’s age, arguing, however, that Kirkland’s team continues to overstate its age. “We are grateful that they have revised their previous claim of a 3.5 billion-year impact, but believe they still lack a convincing case for the 3.02 billion-year hypothesis,” he adds, “This is how science progressively edges closer to the truth.”

Kavosie asserts that younger rocks, dating back only 2.77 billion years, exhibit shatter cones, indicating that the impact must have occurred after this point.

Alec Brenner, a Yale University professor and participant in the opposing study, concurs with Cavosie, stating the rocks must be younger than 2.77 billion years. “The new research disregards this finding based on the premise that these rocks are undated, yet they are directly linked to dated nearby rocks,” Brenner explains.

The key distinction, according to Kirkland, is that his team has calculated the ages of minerals within the impacted rock. “The argument for a younger age relies on a long-range correlation of undated rocks through satellite mapping, rather than on direct geochemical evidence or geochronology,” he states. “We now possess two mineral clocks of the same age sourced from the impact rock itself, emphasizing the importance of direct dating.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

113-Million-Year-Old Pterosaur Fossil Uncovers Diet of Ancient Flying Reptiles

Posted on June 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

A remarkable 113-million-year-old pterosaur fossil from northeastern Brazil has provided rare evidence of soft tissue, organic molecules, and chemical markers indicating a diet rich in cephalopods, including fish and squid.

Grice et al. integrate organic geochemical analysis and high-resolution micromineral imaging of a Cretaceous pterosaur bone in Brazil, revealing steroid biomarkers and the intricate petrification pathways that facilitated its preservation. Image credit: Grice et al., doi: 10.1016/j.isci.2026.116199.

“Our discovery paves the way for new understanding in fossil formation,” stated Professor Kriti Grice from Curtin University, lead author of the study.

In this groundbreaking research, Professor Grice and his team analyzed the left wing of an Early Cretaceous pterosaur found in the Sitio Baixa Grande locality of Brazil’s Araripe Basin.

This site, part of the Romuald Formation, is celebrated for its exceptional preservation of vertebrate fossils, particularly pterosaur species.

The wings of this pterosaur were encased in limestone concretions, preserving intricate details.

Paleontologists uncovered microstructures, including preserved collagen-like fibers, calcified soft tissue, and steroid biomarkers.

Carbon isotope analysis of cholesterol-derived compounds suggests that this pterosaur functioned as an aerial predator, likely hunting cephalopods and fish above the seas during the Cretaceous period, occupying a higher trophic level in the food web.

“This fossil serves as a time capsule. It’s not only beautifully preserved but also marks the first time we’ve detected steroid traces in a pterosaur, offering further evidence of their dietary preferences for fish and squid,” Professor Grice remarked.

“This is also the first instance of molecule recovery from a pterosaur fossil, unlocking new insights into their diet and showcasing the emerging potential of molecular paleontology,” he added.

“The preservation of steroids in fossils is incredibly rare, but our findings challenge conventional beliefs about fossil preservation,” he emphasized.

The researchers employed chemical, isotopic, and high-resolution imaging techniques to reconstruct the fossilization process.

They concluded that the decomposing carcass generated a unique chemical environment.

The acidity resulting from microbial activity led to the formation of phosphate minerals that stabilized the tissue, while subsequent carbonate lithification waves protected the site and prevented further decomposition of organic materials.

This study challenges the long-held idea that only oxygen-poor conditions facilitate exceptional fossil preservation.

Instead, the researchers propose that local oxidized and reduced conditions around the decomposing animal played a crucial role in fossil conservation.

“Our research opens new pathways for fossil preservation, shedding light on ancient life and the unique environmental conditions that enabled such remarkable fossilization,” added Professor Grice.

“This further supports the notion that microorganisms significantly contribute to this process, a finding confirmed at other fossil sites, proposing a new global Lagerstätten mechanism for extraordinary fossil preservation.”

The team’s findings are published in this week’s issue of iscience.

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Kriti Grice et al. Multistep mineralization and biomarker preservation in 113-million-year-old pterosaur bones through redox shifts in diagenesis. iscience published online June 18, 2026. doi: 10.1016/j.isci.2026.116199

Source: www.sci.news

Discover the Ancient Monument that Predates Stonehenge and Celebrated the Summer Solstice

Posted on June 18, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Reenactment of Summer Solstice Celebrations at Bulford

Credit: Marijane Porter, Wessex Archaeology

In an astonishing discovery, archaeologists reveal that Stone Age inhabitants in Britain constructed wooden monuments to celebrate the summer solstice approximately 500 years prior to the iconic stone circles at Stonehenge.

Interestingly, the positioning of Stonehenge also aligns with the summer solstice, suggesting that these wooden structures may have served as early prototypes for the stone edifice. This represents one of the earliest known instances of monuments dedicated to astronomical events in Britain.

Phil Harding of Wessex Archaeology, which spearheaded the excavation, remarked at a press conference, “This discovery provides actual evidence of how these ancient people documented the movement of the sun.”

Stonehenge, constructed during the Neolithic period at the conclusion of the Stone Age, is situated on Salisbury Plain, England. This site features an outer circle of vertical sarsen stones topped with horizontal lintels, accompanied by a smaller inner ring of vertical bluestones. These structures are encompassed by earthen embankments and ditches; the earliest parts were erected around 3100 BC, with subsequent modifications continuing until 1600 BC.

Notably, some of the standing stones are meticulously oriented to face the sunrise on the summer solstice and the sunset on the winter solstice. Associated stones began to be erected around 2500 BC.

During the excavation, Harding and his team discovered the remnants of a 500-year-old monument close to the village of Bulford, located approximately five kilometers northeast of Stonehenge. Before the British Ministry of Defense began plans to establish housing for about 5,000 soldiers, Wessex Archaeology conducted excavations at Bulford between 2015 and 2017.

Researchers uncovered a series of pits containing fluted pottery linked to late Neolithic cultures, with radiocarbon dating indicating the pottery dates back to around 2950 BC. The findings included 40 closely clustered date estimates. “This site appears to have been occupied for a short duration,” Harding stated. “The occupation likely spanned around 10 years.”

Susan Greaney, an expert from the University of Exeter, UK, remarked, “This is a significant Middle Neolithic settlement,” although she was not directly involved in the research.

Pottery Discovered at Bulford, England

Credit: Wessex Archaeology

Two of the pits at Bulford exhibited unique characteristics distinct from the others. Their tapered sides extend from 1.2 meters wide down to 0.5 meters at the base and contained no pottery, only chalk rubble. Researchers determined these to be postholes that once supported tall timbers, likely several meters high, stabilized by the surrounding rubble. One of the postholes even contained rowan charcoal.

These two postholes are located approximately 120 meters apart, and Harding noted that a line drawn through them pointed to an angle of roughly 48.1 degrees northeast, aligning with the midsummer sunrise. “I was extremely excited,” Harding expressed.

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Wessex Archaeology collaborated with Fabio Silva, a skyscape archaeologist from Stone x Sky, to further investigate the posthole alignment. Utilizing a 3D landscape reconstruction that excluded modern buildings and incorporated data on the sun’s trajectory, Silva confirmed that the postholes were effectively aligned with the historical summer solstice sunrises.

While the alignment was slightly off by about a degree, Silva mentioned that considering the potential width of the wooden pillars (up to 50 centimeters), this misalignment is acceptable. “The probability of this alignment being coincidental is less than 0.5 percent,” he stated.

A. Cesar González Garcia from Spain’s National Research Council in Santiago de Compostela, who did not participate in the study, noted, “A rough orientation is probably sufficient for the rituals intended at these sites.” He emphasized that there appears to be a broad understanding and interest in astronomical phenomena among ancient cultures.

Previous ruins in the vicinity also exhibit evidence of solar tracking, albeit with less precision. “From the very beginning of Neolithic habitation in this landscape, celestial observations were integrated into their ceremonial architecture,” remarked Matt Leivers, also from Wessex Archaeology.

Greaney added, “Many wooden monuments were arranged in this manner, and the Bulford site could represent an earlier stage in the development of monument construction.” For instance, the nearby Larkhill has a Neolithic enclosure dating back to around 3700 BC and boasts an entrance that aligns northeast. If one stands at this entrance on a midsummer morning, the sun will brilliantly rise above Sidbury Hill, the highest point on the horizon.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Discovering an Early Prototype of Stonehenge: The Secrets of an Ancient Monument

Posted on June 18, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Reenactment of Summer Solstice Celebrations in Bulford

Marijane Porter, Wessex Archaeology

Ancient Stone Age societies in Britain constructed wooden monuments to mark the summer solstice approximately 500 years before the iconic stone circles at Stonehenge were established.

Stonehenge also aligns with the summer solstice, hinting that the wooden structures may have inspired its creation. This discovery represents one of the earliest manifestations of monuments dedicated to celestial events in Britain.

“What we have now is substantial evidence that these communities were able to track the sun’s movement,” stated Phil Harding from Wessex Archaeology, who led the excavation project during a press conference unveiling the findings.

Stonehenge, completed at the end of the Stone Age, during the Neolithic era, is situated on Salisbury Plain, England. It encompasses an outer ring of vertical sarsen stones topped with horizontal lintels, alongside a smaller inner circle of vertical bluestone and additional stones. This oldest section dates back to around 3100 BC, with further constructions extending until 1600 BC.

Notably, certain standing stones appear meticulously positioned to align with the summer solstice sunrise and the opposite sight for the winter solstice sunset, with construction of these associated stones occurring around 2500 BC.

Harding and his team unearthed the remnants of a 500-year-old monument near Bulford, roughly five kilometers northeast of Stonehenge, in a location initially designated for a military base housing 5,000 soldiers. Prior to construction, Wessex Archaeology carried out excavations from 2015 to 2017.

The research team identified several pits containing fluted pottery created by late Neolithic cultures. Radiocarbon dating suggests the pottery dates back to around 2950 BC, with 40 samples clustered closely in time. “This site was occupied for a relatively brief period,” Harding explained, estimating an occupancy span of about a decade.

Acknowledging its significance, Susan Greaney from the University of Exeter, who was not involved in the study, remarked, “This is a crucial Middle Neolithic settlement.”

Pottery Unearthed in Bulford, England

Wessex Archaeology

Two pits found at Bulford displayed distinct shapes: tapering sides that transitioned from 1.2 meters wide to just 0.5 meters, lacking pottery but filled with chalk rubble. Harding concluded these were postholes that once supported upright timbers, with one containing rowan charcoal.

Positioned approximately 120 meters apart, the postholes’ alignment directed towards the northeast, roughly 48.1 degrees—a significant angle for summer solstice sunrises. Harding expressed his enthusiasm, remarking, “I was genuinely thrilled.”

Wessex Archaeology enlisted Fabio Silva, a skyscape archaeologist with Stone x Sky, to analyze the posthole arrangements further. Through a 3D landscape reconstruction, Silva concluded that the alignment of the postholes correlated effectively with ancient midsummer sunrises, allowing for a discrepancy of just about one degree.

Silva noted, “This slight variation makes sense considering the potential diameter of wooden pillars, which could have reached 50 centimeters. Accounting for this width, the alignment remains impressive.” He stated, “The chance of this being coincidental is less than 0.5 percent.”

“A rough orientation might suffice for the rituals conducted at such sites,” suggested A. Cesar González Garcia from Spain’s National Research Council, highlighting the community’s long-standing interest in cosmological phenomena.

Evidently, ancient ruins in the vicinity provide indications that early societies tracked the sun, albeit with varying precision. As Matt Leivers of Wessex Archaeology affirmed, “Since the dawn of Neolithic communities, the sun has consistently influenced their ceremonial structures.”

Greaney reiterated that numerous wooden monuments were similarly oriented, with the Bulford site contributing to the narrative of early monumental architecture. For instance, nearby Larkhill features a Neolithic enclosure from approximately 3700 BC, predating Bulford and Stonehenge. Its entrance faces northeast, allowing for full sunrise visibility over Sidbury Hill on midsummer mornings, as noted by Leavens.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Ancient Plague Evidence Found in Prehistoric Grave: Shattering Historical Narratives

Posted on June 17, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Recent research has unveiled the earliest evidence of a plague outbreak, discovered in ancient graves of children in Siberia. This revelation may change our understanding of this deadly disease.

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This groundbreaking discovery is detailed in a recent study published in the journal Nature, offering new insights into one of history’s gravest diseases.

The site, located alongside the Angara River, revealed the remains of multiple generations of hunter-gatherers, alongside archaeological artifacts like 5,500-year-old arrowheads. Genetic analysis of the teeth showed plague DNA in approximately 40% of the samples.

Excavations revealed the sad reality that three children were buried together, two of whom were half-sisters aged 9-10 and 5-6. Additionally, an 11- to 12-year-old boy was buried alongside them and tested positive for plague DNA.
Provided by: Vladimir Bazarisky

Lead researcher Ruairidh MacLeod from the University of Oxford noted that the grave sites encompassed not only cousins but also sisters aged between four and nine years.

“Three young girls were buried together, likely succumbing simultaneously to the disease. Our findings reveal significant amounts of plague DNA in all three, indicating a tragic impact on these children in prehistoric communities,” he explained.

The study suggests two distinct outbreaks of plague occurred within these hunter-gatherer societies. This evidence implies that the ancient plague likely spread within families, challenging previous notions regarding its impact on prehistoric groups. Previous research has noted a singular plague infection in a hunter-gatherer in present-day Latvia around 5,000 years ago but found no evidence of widespread epidemics or human-to-human transmission.

Throughout history, plagues have dramatically altered human society, notably during the pandemic starting in 1347. This outbreak, known as the Black Death, resulted in the loss of approximately half of Europe’s population, with subsequent recurrences leading to significant societal disruption.

Researchers have long linked the emergence of plague and other infectious diseases to the Neolithic Revolution, when humans transitioned from nomadic lifestyles centered on hunting to settled agricultural societies. This change fostered higher population densities and closer living quarters with animals that potentially carried harmful pathogens.

However, outside experts assert that this new study calls into question previously held beliefs about plague’s origins.

Nicolas Raskobin, a researcher of ancient DNA at the Pasteur Institute in Paris, remarked, “This discovery offers clear evidence of a prehistoric outbreak, highlighting that agricultural lifestyles may not be the sole factor in plague emergence.”

This research indicates that the plague may have sporadically affected certain hunter-gatherer communities living near wild animals harboring the bacteria, primarily spreading among family units.

Eske Willasev, an evolutionary geneticist from the University of Copenhagen, emphasized, “The perception that the hunter-gatherer phase was free from diseases is incorrect. We are now realizing that these societies faced recurrent outbreaks of disease.”

Skull of a girl aged 9-11 years, buried with other plague victims.
Provided by Angela Leavers

The bacterium identified in this study, Yersinia pestis, is the same species responsible for the Black Death. However, it is believed that this ancient strain lacked some key characteristics seen in later outbreaks. Research posits that the bacteria may not have developed the ability to cause bubonic plague until about 3,800 years ago.

Researchers hypothesize that the ancient epidemic was likely linked to pneumonic plague, a form affecting the respiratory system and likely transmitted through coughing.

“Pneumonic plague is more serious than bubonic plague, spreading through respiratory droplets rather than fleas,” explained MacLeod. “It poses a significant risk and is highly fatal.”

The skeletal remains analyzed were excavated by Russian archaeologists in the 1980s and preserved from four cemeteries located near Lake Baikal, a vital fishing site for ancient peoples in Siberia. Uniquely, some graves contained multiple remains without any indication of being disturbed.

A solitary burial of a 10- to 12-year-old boy who was found to be infected with plague.
Provided by: Vladimir Bazarisky

This suggests that several children likely succumbed to the plague simultaneously and were interred together, indicating a heightened vulnerability among younger individuals in these communities.

By extracting DNA from the molars of these skeletons, researchers were able to uncover familial relationships while detecting the plague bacteria. Of the 46 bones analyzed, bacteria appeared in 18, but the team believes the larger number suffered from the plague, with many samples not yielding detectable bacteria due to preservation challenges.

“Similar investigations of plague victims from historical pits in medieval London yielded a detection rate of around 20%,” shared MacLeod. With a nearly double mortality rate observed in this Siberian site, he suggests that most deceased likely perished from the plague.

Plague cases continue to emerge in certain rural regions. Prompt identification of these cases allows for effective treatment using antibiotics. Last year, Madagascar experienced over 2,400 occurrences of pneumonic plague, while the United States recorded its first plague-related fatality since 2007 in Arizona.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Newly Discovered Ancient Beardog Species Unearthed in Spain

Posted on June 12, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists have discovered a new species of ceratozoa, commonly known as beardogs, from two well-preserved specimens found at a fossil-rich site in the Valles Penedes Basin near Barcelona, Spain.

Pardoshion Moyasolai. Image credit: Jesus Gamarra.

The species has been named Pardoshion Moyasolai. It thrived during the mid-Miocene epoch, approximately 15.9 million years ago, in a warm, forested environment with shallow lakes.

This carnivorous mammal belongs to the extinct family Amphicyonidae, often referred to as bear dogs due to their unique blend of traits from modern bears and dogs.

“The Lycoptidae family played a significant role in the carnivore population across North America and Eurasia throughout much of the Cenozoic Era,” explained Dr. Jorge Morales from the CSIC National Science Museum and his colleagues.

“In Africa, the earliest evidence of horned phycyonids dates back to the early Miocene, persisting until the late Miocene, marking the last known occurrence of this group.”

Dr. Morales added, “Recent studies suggest that North America may have been the origin of this family, supported by a more complete and diverse Paleogene record of horned phycyonids in North America compared to Western Europe or Asia.”

The two specimens of Pardoshion Moyasolai were excavated from the Els Casots site in the Valles Penedes Basin, Spain.

The fossils include a well-preserved skull with most teeth intact and an isolated lower molar discovered separately.

Currently, both specimens are housed at the Miquel Crusafont Catalan Institute of Palaeontology in Sabadell, Spain.

Researchers noted that Pardoshion Moyasolai can be identified by the distinct proportions of its molars. Notably, the upper second molars were wider than the upper first molars, and the upper third molars were exceptionally large and developed.

These features are unique, as they have not been observed in any other known members of this genus, including Pardochyon.

To pinpoint the classification of Pardoshion Moyasolai, Dr. Morales and his team compared its teeth to those of related species from Europe and North America.

The results indicate that this new species represents one of the earliest divergences within the genus Pardochyon, making it one of the most primitive known members of the group.

The findings also suggest that the classification of Cyneros does not reflect a natural grouping, as it is paraphyletic, meaning its members do not share a single common ancestor specific to that group.

Three species currently classified under North America’s Cyneros present a distinctive challenge. Analysis reveals that Pardochyon species are more diverse than their European Cyneros counterparts, but their classifications are still unresolved.

Scientists propose that these North American species may have evolved independently from their European relatives, likely descending from Asian ancestors or unique North American lineages.

“Phylogenetic analysis indicates that while Cyneros is paraphyletic, it does support the monophyly of Pardochyon, with the new species identified as its most basal member,” the authors noted.

“This underscores the long-distance evolutionary ties between species, with European Cyneros (e.g., Kineros rugocidens and Kineros remanensis) and Pardochyon supporting their classification as distinct genera.”

This significant discovery is detailed in a recent article published in the Mammal Evolution Journal.

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J. Morales et al.. 2026. Discovery of a new species Pardochyon (Carnivora: Amphicyonidae) from the early Miocene of Els Casots, Valles Penedes Basin, Barcelona, Spain. J. Mammal. Evol 33, 29; doi: 10.1007/s10914-026-09814-6

Source: www.sci.news

Unlocking the Mystery of Sloths: How an Ancient ‘Jumping Gene’ Influences Their Slow Lifestyle

Posted on June 10, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Sloths, along with armadillos and anteaters, are part of the genus Xenarthra, the only clade of placental mammals originating from South America. Recent research has sequenced and analyzed the chromosomal-level genome of Linnaeus’s three-toed sloth (Choloepus didactylus) and the Southern anteater (Tamandua tetradactyla). This study identified unique genetic elements linked to energy production in sloths, shedding light on how these remarkable creatures evolved the slowest metabolism of any mammal.

Linnaeus’s three-toed sloth (Choloepus didactylus) at London Zoo. Image credit: Dick Culbert / CC BY 2.0.

Xenarthrans have existed for over 65 million years, with ancestors that included gigantic sloths. Today, modern sloths are tree-dwelling creatures classified into two groups: three-toed and two-toed sloths.

These fascinating mammals primarily inhabit trees, camouflaging themselves by remaining motionless. When they move among branches to forage for leaves and fruits, their actions are characteristically slow.

Sloths boast the lowest metabolism of all mammals, often producing less than half the energy expected for their body size.

To conserve energy, sloths can switch between self-regulating their body temperature and allowing it to fluctuate with their environment.

Despite their slow nature, sloths are proficient swimmers, capable of covering considerable distances underwater in search of mates.

In a groundbreaking study, Wellcome Sanger Institute researcher Marcela Uliano Silva and her team utilized genomics to delve deeper into the unique ecology of sloths.

Dr. Uliano Silva noted, “Billions of experiments in evolution exist. By examining exotic species like sloths, we often uncover biological solutions that humans have not evolved.”

She continued, “Our genomic research revealed a ‘jump gene’ that sloths have preserved for millions of years.”

Researchers found that these sloth-specific genes are associated with mitochondria and metabolic pathways, suggesting their involvement in the sloths’ remarkably slow metabolism.

The study sequenced and analyzed the genomes of Linnaeus’s three-toed sloth and Southern anteater, uncovering several active transposable elements known as “transposons” or “jumping genes.” These DNA sequences can relocate within the genome by copying and pasting themselves.

Mapping the evolution of sloths revealed that these “jump genes” originated from the last common ancestor of all existing sloth species about 30 million years ago, being conserved and integrated into sloth-specific gene sequences.

Researchers discovered that many of these genes are linked to mitochondria, the cell’s powerhouses responsible for energy production, and metabolic pathways.

Given sloths’ unique metabolic characteristics, these specific genes are believed to play a crucial role in their adaptation to the environment and the evolution of their slow metabolism.

“Despite having the slowest metabolism, sloths remain healthy,” states Dr. Camila Mazzoni from the Leibniz Zoo and Wildlife Institute. “Understanding their cellular adaptations could provide insights into efficient energy management.”

Dr. Pedro Galante from Sirio Libanes Hospital remarked, “This research may help us understand energy production issues related to several human diseases, including diabetes and neurodegenerative disorders.”

Ultimately, studying sloth cell lines could offer a natural model for understanding how organisms cope with low-energy conditions, benefiting research in medicine, aging, and even long-duration space travel.

This pioneering study is published in the journal BMC Biology.

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M. Uliano Silva et al. Increased retrocopy load and sloth-specific expansions reveal mammalian genome evolution. BMC Biol published online on May 19, 2026. doi: 10.1186/s12915-026-02632-5

Source: www.sci.news

Frozen Squirrel Feces: A Unique Source for Preserving Ancient DNA from Hundreds of Species

Posted on June 9, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Arctic ground squirrels forage for diverse food sources to stock their burrows.

Credit: Yukon Government

Recent analyses of DNA preserved in ancient frozen feces have unveiled a diverse ecosystem from 700,000 years ago, featuring species like woolly mammoths, bison, horses, and big cats.

The Arctic ground squirrel (Urositels parii) is a rodent measuring approximately 40 centimeters, inhabiting cold regions across North America and Siberia—historically linked by land bridges known as Beringia.

“Arctic ground squirrels hibernate for about eight months a year, so during their active four months, they venture out to forage and store resources in their burrows,” states Tyler Murchy from the Hakai Institute, Campbell River, Canada.

This foraging behavior results in their burrows often housing substantial amounts of feces and food, effectively making them “nature’s archivist,” according to Murchy. He and his team analyzed saprolites—preserved feces—frozen in permafrost from 13 Arctic ground squirrel burrows located in central Yukon, Canada.

Estimated to date back between 30,000 and 700,000 years, these burrows served as crucial sites for extracting DNA from various organisms present in the feces, which measured around 1 to 2 centimeters long.

The findings revealed a wealth of biodiversity, including microorganisms, over 200 different plant species, insects, other rodents, and large mammals such as woolly mammoths, horses, gray wolves, steppe bison, and lynx. An American cheetah or a cougar also inhabited this ecosystem. “All these organisms represent life from the Bering Ice Age,” Murchy remarks.

Contrary to popular belief, ground squirrels do not exclusively consume nuts and seeds. “They are actually quite omnivorous and have even been reported to scavenge on moose and lynx carcasses,” Murchy explains. Therefore, the discovery of such large animals in coprolites is not unexpected.

Ancient dung pellets from Arctic ground squirrels discovered in Yukon Territory, Canada

Credit: Duane Froese, University of Alberta

Utilizing the DNA extracted, Murchie and colleagues reconstructed the mitochondrial genomes of various species from different eras, including 12 ground squirrels—one lineage tracing back 700,000 years—three horses, two bison, and one hare. They also gathered enough DNA to reconstruct the genomes of six woolly mammoths, with further details pending publication.

“These remarkably preserved specimens showcase the ecological diversity of Yukon throughout history,” says Kelsey Witt of Clemson University, South Carolina.

Determining whether the DNA from any given species is present in coprolites because it was consumed by ground squirrels or because it existed in the environment can be challenging. However, the abundance of DNA within the samples and the scavenging behavior of the squirrels suggest they likely consumed mammoth meat, Witt concludes.

Topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Unveiling the Truth: The Migration of Ancient Humans from Africa Explained

Posted on June 8, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Migration from Africa: A Complex Journey

Christian Jegou/Science Photo Library

Migration from Africa: A Complex Journey

Christian Jegou/Science Photo Library

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The Great Migration out of Africa is a cornerstone of human evolutionary history. Our species emerged in Africa, became dominant, and spread across all continents—except Antarctica—around 60,000 years ago.

Genetic studies reinforce this narrative. African populations showcase significantly more genetic diversity than any other continent. While Europeans, Japanese, Indigenous Australians, and Native Americans may exhibit distinct physical traits, they share surprising genetic similarities. Even neighboring African groups can be genetically more diverse. This suggests that our species originated in Africa, where those who migrated beyond carried only a fraction of this genetic richness, shaping all non-African populations today.

I highlight this to underscore two crucial facts: migration out of Africa occurred, and it has profoundly impacted our species.

However, let’s reconsider the narrative. Events outside Africa may have transpired differently than previously imagined.

Archaeological Insights and Molecular Evidence

In recent years, confusion has grown regarding the specifics of the mass migration from Africa. Archaeologist Hugh Gourcutt of The University of Malta has approached this systematically. On April 15th, he presented a study in Quaternary Science Review, outlining his concerns regarding the accepted narrative.

Groucutt’s first point is that archaeological evidence does not align with genetic data. He states, “While genomic data implies successful dispersal into Asia, compelling archaeological evidence linking Africa and Eurasia during that period is lacking.” In essence, if numerous Homo sapiens migrated from Africa to Eurasia approximately 60,000 years ago, artifacts corroborating this movement should be present, yet none are found.

Furthermore, Groucutt identifies two interconnected challenges: determining precise timelines for archaeological events and a historical fixation on “revolutions” that clouds our understanding.

Consider the dating issue. The timing of large-scale migration from Africa vastly varies among genetic analyses. Some suggest it occurred around 56,000 years ago, while others estimate “less than 55,000 years ago“, and even “50,300 to 59,400 years ago” or “before 75,000 years ago“. Such a broad range for a relatively recent event (geologically speaking) raises significant uncertainty.

Groucutt argues that efforts to date migrations may be overly ambitious, often relying on biased models that oversimplify raw genetic data. “The reality is that we lack a comprehensive understanding of how ancient populations spread and interacted,” he asserts. “Models heavily influence the results.”

Reconstructed Skull of an Early Denisovan

Gary Todd (CC0)

For instance, genetic models often presume random interbreeding among populations, a notion proven false. Human populations tend to cluster, with mates chosen from nearby individuals or those sharing cultural or social traits. Additionally, early African populations fragmented over time, and the dynamics of this fragmentation remain only partially understood. “It’s challenging to model these interactions,” Groucutt notes.

It’s important to recognize the tendency to categorize intergroup divisions as clearly defined events. This reflects in the human family tree and terminology such as “divisions.” My previous discussions of Ancestor X, the last common ancestor of humans, Neanderthals, and Denisovans, can create an impression of abrupt splits at specific times and places.

While some separations can be abrupt—like a flood sweeping a population—others may occur gradually over centuries, with periods of contact and separation. Such may be the case with migration from Africa: not a singular large-scale exodus, but numerous smaller migrations over thousands of years, lacking a centralized plan or objective.

Hence, Groucutt proposes a more extensive timeframe for migration outside Africa. Rather than claiming it occurred strictly around 60,000 years ago, we should assert it transpired between 100,000 and 50,000 years ago.

This leads to another notion: a persistent search for discrete “events” or “revolutions” in prehistory.

Revolutionizing Our Understanding of Prehistory

Hand Paintings in Sumpang Bita Cave, Indonesia

Nature Picture Library / Alamy

Researchers have long sought to pinpoint dramatic shifts in prehistory. These “revolutions” signify rapid, significant changes thought to originate in specific locations and then spread globally.

For instance, the idea that our species became “behaviorally modern” around 50,000 years ago implies that we began making specialized tools, creating art, conducting rituals, and possibly developing real languages. This was termed the “Upper Paleolithic revolution.” However, such assertions are increasingly contested. Archaeological evidence suggests that these behaviors arose gradually, possibly developing independently in various regions. Furthermore, Neanderthals likely engaged in artistic expression as well.

The notion of revolutions was prevalent in the 20th century, with archaeologist V. Gordon Childe characterizing the emergence of agriculture as the “Neolithic Revolution,” soon followed by an “urban revolution” defined by the rise of increasingly dense settlements. Yet, these oversimplified classifications mask the complexities of human behavior throughout history.

Groucutt asserts that the “revolution” narrative continues to affect genetic interpretations today. He remarks, “People often speak of ‘happenings’ outside of Africa.” Conversely, the migration was likely composed of “small groups scattered across vast landscapes over tens of thousands of years.” In his view, this process was not a singular “event,” but rather a prolonged span involving groups leaving Africa, sometimes returning with valuable information.

While previous migratory patterns may have been sporadic, they still occurred. Evidence suggests modern humans inhabited the sites of Shuhur and Qafzeh in Israel as early as 130,000 years ago, with earlier claims from Misriyah in Israel and Apidima in Greece, albeit dating controversies persist.

Genetics indicates that only late migrations after 100,000 years ago played a role in shaping modern non-African populations. Earlier migrants left no distinguishable genetic legacy, although they may have influenced genetics indirectly via interbreeding with Neanderthals.

This enduring belief in “revolutions” may reflect deep-seated biases in our storytelling. Narratives are often characterized by dramatic turns and climaxes, making them memorable. However, it’s crucial to appreciate that foundational elements steadily contribute to these climactic moments, underscoring the importance of gradual processes in history.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Unveiling the Giant Scorpion: The Apex Predator of Ancient Britain in the Devonian Period

Posted on June 5, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists have recently confirmed that Praacturus gigas is the largest scorpion ever discovered, having roamed the shallow seas during the Devonian period, approximately 415 million years ago.

Praacturus gigas. Image credit: Franz Anthony.

This ancient creature measured approximately 1 meter (3.3 ft) long and boasted formidable pincers over 16 centimeters (6.3 inches) in length. According to Praacturus gigas, it was a powerful predator that thrived in floodplain ecosystems during its time.

Originally identified as an isopod in 1871, Praacturus gigas was later reclassified after comparisons with various arthropod groups and featured in a limited edition illustration of a giant scorpion from the 1980s.

Lead author Dr. Richard Howard, curator of fossil arthropods at the Natural History Museum in London, stated, “When people think of giant arthropods, they often envision the Carboniferous rainforests of Earth’s late history, where massive insects like millipedes and dragonflies thrived.”

However, Praacturus gigas existed at least 50 million years prior to that era, in a time when large terrestrial life was just beginning to take shape.

“Confirming that this creature is indeed a scorpion significantly alters our understanding of the evolution and growth of these astonishing animals,” added Dr. Howard.

In a groundbreaking study, Dr. Howard and his team employed modern analytical methods and fossil comparisons, concluding that Praacturus gigas is accurately classified as a scorpion.

Co-author Dr. Russell Garwood, a paleontologist at the University of Manchester, commented, “Praacturus gigas has baffled paleontologists for over a century. Our collaboration, utilizing advanced imaging techniques, has allowed us to construct a much clearer understanding of these ancient creatures.”

“What’s particularly intriguing about Praacturus gigas is its significant size during an epoch when most life forms on land were quite small. This suggests an ecosystem capable of supporting giant predators,” he added.

To gain insights into this ancient ecosystem, the research team compared scorpion fossils with other contemporaneous fauna.

The findings indicate that Praacturus gigas likely inhabited aquatic environments, where larger life forms were more prevalent.

During the early Devonian period, complex terrestrial ecosystems were in their infancy; only simple plants and fungi had begun to populate the land.

This means that, unlike later megafauna, this giant scorpion did not benefit from the elevated oxygen levels found in more advanced forested environments.

Instead, its large size may have been a result of limited competition from other sizable predators.

Fossil evidence also suggests that Praacturus gigas may have had a semi-aquatic lifestyle.

Co-author Dr. Greg Edgecombe, also a paleontologist at the Natural History Museum in London, remarked, “Back then, the distinction between land and sea was far less defined. Praacturus gigas gives us a fascinating glimpse into how early animals adapted to these shifting environments.”

“This species may even represent a lineage that returned to aquatic life after its ancestors had already commenced living on land,” he noted.

The team’s paper was published in the latest issue of Paleontology.

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Richard J. Howard et al. 2026. Revised classification of Praacturus gigas: A giant scorpion from the Lower Devonian (Rochkovian) of Britain. Paleontology 69 (3): e70064; doi: 10.1111/pala.70064

Source: www.sci.news

Ötzi’s Frozen Remains: Discovering Metabolically Active Microorganisms in Ancient Ice

Posted on June 3, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Ötzi’s Preservation Conditions

South Tyrol Archaeological Museum/Eurac Research/Marion Lafogler

Recent research suggests that some microorganisms in the 5,300-year-old remains of Ötzi the Iceman may be metabolically active, despite his long-term ice preservation.

Ötzi’s mummified remains were discovered in 1991, as they melted from a glacier in the Alps near the Austria-Italy border. He is estimated to have lived between 3350 and 3120 BC. Over the last 35 years, studies of his remains revealed significant insights, including his probable dark complexion and baldness, and the fact that he had numerous tattoos. An arrow wound in his shoulder indicates he was murdered.

Ötzi is currently housed at the South Tyrol Archaeological Museum in Bolzano, Italy, under conditions that replicate those of his original icy environment: -6°C (21°F) with 99% relative humidity.

Researchers, including Frank Meixner from the Eulac Institute Mummy Research Institute, analyzed skin swabs, tissue fragments, and thawed water samples from Ötzi, collected in 1992, 2010, and 2019. They compared these to soil and ice samples from the discovery site in the 1990s.

Both ancient and modern microorganisms have been identified in Ötzi, with some possibly remaining metabolically active. “We can differentiate between Ötzi’s endogenous gut bacteria and those that entered his body from the environment after death,” Meixner explains.

Metagenomic analysis of internal tissues conducted by the research team has revealed specialized bacteria that thrive in mammalian intestines without oxygen, such as Treponema and Kineotrix. The extent of DNA damage in these bacteria suggests they were living in Ötzi’s body during his lifetime.

The diverse range of microbes found in Ötzi’s gut may reflect the varied diets of Chalcolithic humans, contrasting with those of modern Western societies, according to Meixner.

Additionally, the samples contained bacteria from the Pseudomonas genus, commonly found in soil and water. The DNA damage observed indicates these bacteria likely belong to an ancient microbial community at the discovery site.

The research team identified cold-tolerant or psychrophilic yeasts in Ötzi’s external samples: Phenoripheria, Graciojima, Gofojima, and Murakia.

Analysis indicated that these yeasts are also ancient microorganisms. Notably, the presence of Graciojima increased from 2010 to 2019, suggesting it may be metabolically active or capable of reproduction under current storage conditions.

Reconstructed Image of Ötzi

South Tyrol Archaeological Museum/Augustin Ochsenreiter

“This is compelling evidence that Graciojima has colonized the mummy post-mortem,” states Nikolai Oskolkov, although he’d like additional data points to ensure results are not influenced by experimental conditions.

The increasing prevalence of yeast is intriguing, as noted by Damra Kaptan from the University of Stavanger, Norway. “Determining if it’s active will require us to check for RNA produced from the yeast DNA,” she elaborates. “It’s possible the yeast was dormant or partially activated during thawing.”

Some yeasts possess enzymes capable of breaking down proteins and collagen, which could potentially harm the mummies; however, researchers found no evidence of such damage.

The research team also identified microorganisms containing genes that can degrade the toxic compound phenol. Professor Meixner suggests this may be linked to treatments applied to the mummy in the 1990s aimed at controlling mold growth. “When Ötzi was discovered, there was already active mold, and he was treated with phenol,” he explains. “This could have strengthened the microbiome.”

Overall, the study indicates that Ötzi is not merely a biological time capsule, but rather a complex ecosystem formed from the inheritance of his gut microbes, the glacial environment, and over 30 years of preservation. “Given these microbes have been associated with the mummy from the start, should we consider them as part of his biological makeup?” questions Meixner.

He recommends ongoing genomic monitoring, including checks for activity signs like RNA and metabolites, to determine if the microbial community is awakening and affecting Ötzi’s tissue. If this occurs, scientists may need to reassess storage conditions to mitigate microbial activity.

Topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Ancient Oceans’ Oxygen Decline Predated End-Triassic Mass Extinction by Millions of Years

Posted on June 3, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Chemical signatures embedded in ancient rocks indicate that the marine environment began deteriorating long before the catastrophic event that eliminated numerous species at the end of the Triassic period, approximately 201 million years ago.

Early Earth. Image credit: Peter Sawyer/Smithsonian Institution.

“The late Triassic period experienced one of the most severe mass extinctions in Earth’s history—the end-Triassic mass extinction, which occurred just prior to the Triassic-Jurassic boundary (201 million years ago),” stated Kayla McCabe, a geologist at Virginia Tech, along with her colleagues.

“This extinction event resulted in the loss of approximately 60% of marine invertebrates and was accompanied by various paleoenvironmental disturbances.”

“It has been proposed that extensive volcanic activity from the central Atlantic magma belt instigated the environmental shifts that contributed to the end-Triassic extinction,” McCabe added.

“These shifts included climate warming, ocean acidification, and deoxygenation, among others.”

In their recent study, McCabe and her co-authors examined rock records.

They conducted field visits to Grotto Creek in Wrangell-St. Paul, Alaska, in 2017, 2019, and 2022. This remote area of Elias National Park can only be reached by small planes.

The researchers analyzed sedimentary rock layers that were deposited before, during, and after the extinction event.

These rock formations serve as a record of ancient environmental conditions, particularly within the Panthalassic Sea.

Exploring these records reveals that oxygen levels in shallow oceans began to decline approximately 8 million years prior to the end-Triassic mass extinction.

This early decline in oxygen is believed to have placed significant stress on marine ecosystems long before the mass extinction occurred.

Geochemical analyses indicate that oxygen depletion intensified during the extinction event itself and played a crucial role in the loss of species.

Bengwigwisingaskas eremicarminis on the Panthalassan Sea coast. Image credit: Jorge Gonzalez.

“There is evidence for another volcanic field that aligns with this time interval,” remarked Ben Gill, a geochemist at Virginia Tech.

“While we may not fully understand the causes, we are gaining insights into the processes that took place.”

“This provides us with a framework for predicting future outcomes, as our oceans—like Chesapeake Bay—are currently experiencing acidification and deoxygenation.”

“Earth has undergone similar experiments in the past, suggesting that rising temperatures and associated ripple effects are likely to follow.”

“This offers valuable insights into what we might expect moving forward.”

The findings are detailed in a publication in Nature Communications Earth and Environment.

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KE McCabe et al. 2026. Deoxygenation of the equatorial Panthalassan Ocean preceded the mass extinction at the end of the Triassic. Nature Communications Earth and Environment 7, 460; doi: 10.1038/s43247-026-03362-w

Source: www.sci.news

Ancient Human Habitation Uncovered at 2,000 Meters: Experts Stunned by Mountain Discovery

Posted on June 2, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

A mysterious ancient settlement has been uncovered in Spain’s Pyrenees, shedding light on prehistoric human life.

Documented in a groundbreaking study, the prehistoric cave known as Cova 338 is situated 2,235 meters (7,333 feet) above sea level in the Nuria Valley. This remarkable find is the highest dwelling of its kind ever discovered in the region.

For decades, archaeologists believed that elevations above 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) were only transient stops for roaming groups. However, new evidence reveals that between 5,000 and 1,000 years BC, several groups occupied these caves for extended periods.

Interestingly, the archaeological findings indicate that these occupations were not continuous. There were significant periods of abandonment, suggesting that the inhabitants returned intentionally rather than out of necessity.

The excavation of Cova 338 took place between 2021 and 2023, spearheaded by researchers from Spain’s Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB) and the Institute of Paleoecology, Human Evolution and Society of Catalonia (IPHES-CERCA).

During their investigations, the team uncovered fire remains, animal bones, pottery shards, and even two unique pendants—one crafted from a sea shell and the other from a brown bear’s tooth.

This pendant made from a bear incisor recovered from Cova 338 is a rare find, believed to carry symbolic significance – Photo credit: IPHES-CERCA

The cave also contains a collection of green minerals, likely malachite, a copper carbonate mineral, indicating some of the earliest evidence of copper extraction in Western Europe.

This suggests that these materials were transported to the caves for processing, highlighting a systematic approach to resource exploitation in high-altitude settings.

Researchers believe that these activities were meticulously organized, implying that people inhabited this location at specific historical moments for designated purposes.

“Mountains were not barriers, but active sites in the economic and territorial organization of prehistoric communities,” stated Dr. Udaldo Carbonell, co-author of the study.

Main author Carlos Tornello remarked, “Historically, these mountainous locations were seen as peripheral. Our findings reveal repeated occupations accompanied by complex activities and deliberate exploitation of mineral resources,” said the professor from UAB’s Department of Prehistory.

This significant study was published in the journal Frontiers of Environmental Archeology.

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Ancient Anesthetics Unearthed: Groundbreaking Discovery in Chinese Doctor’s Tomb

Posted on May 26, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Surgical scissors and tweezers excavated from Xia Quan’s grave, containing remnants of the anesthetic aconitine.

Image credit: Xue Ling et al.

Ancient surgical instruments — Surgical scissors and tweezers excavated from Xia Quan’s grave, containing remnants of the anesthetic aconitine.

Image credit: Xue Ling et al.

The discovery of two medical instruments from a 15th-century Chinese surgeon’s tomb reveals traces of anesthetic compounds, marking the earliest evidence of efforts to alleviate pain during medical procedures.

Excavated in 1974 from the tomb of renowned surgeon Xia Quan (1348-1411), located in Jiangsu province, these surgical scissors and tweezers shed light on ancient medical practices.

Researchers from Northwest University in Xi’an, China utilized advanced laser technology to analyze the residue on these tools and detected significant traces of aconitine, a compound derived from the aconite genus, commonly known as Wolfsbane. This substance frequently appears in historical Chinese medicine formulations.

Aconitine functions by interacting with sodium channels within the neuronal cell membrane, producing an anesthetic effect when administered in precise doses. However, its high toxicity limits its contemporary medical use due to the associated risk of poisoning.

The significant presence of residue on the scissor blades and tweezers’ tips suggests the aconitine was intentionally applied, not merely a result of contamination, according to researchers.

According to Carnie Matheson, a professor at Griffith University in Brisbane, Australia, the findings offer compelling, direct evidence of anesthetic application in ancient surgery.

“This indicates that early surgeons had a more advanced understanding of pain management than we previously recognized,” Matheson stated. “Now, we can better appreciate why surgeries were performed in historical contexts and how they were manageable,” he added.

Historical texts reveal that Ming Dynasty medical practitioners developed various methods to lessen aconitine’s toxicity, including utilizing techniques such as “processing it with boy’s urine, soaking it in black bean decoction, boiling it in vinegar, detoxifying it using mung beans, and removing the outer skin of aconite tubers,” noted Zhao et al.

Matheson elaborated that refining aconitine from these toxic plants required significant scientific knowledge to ensure safe application for patients. “Surgeons had to extract the benefits of these compounds without endangering themselves or their patients, all while ensuring the methods were effective,” he explained.

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Medical Drugs /
Archaeology

Source: www.newscientist.com

How Ancient Crater Lakes Fostered Ideal Conditions for Earth’s Earliest Oxygen-Breathing Life

Posted on May 21, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Groundbreaking research has unveiled the presence of stromatolites—layered structures created by microbial communities—within a 42,000-year-old asteroid crater in South Korea. This significant finding suggests that an ancient post-impact lake acted as an “oxygen oasis,” providing a vital habitat for early life.

A detailed analysis of stromatolites and lake sediments at the Hapcheon impact crater indicates that these formations may represent the oldest fossilized evidence of oxygen-producing microbial life on early Earth. Image credit: Lim et al., doi: 10.1038/s43247-026-03206-7.

“Stromatolites, which are layered organic sedimentary structures, have been identified as some of the earliest evidence of life on Earth, dating back approximately 3.5 billion years to the early Archean era,” stated lead author Dr. Jaesoo Lim and colleagues from the Korea Institute of Earth Science and Mineral Resources.

These layered structures form through the trapping and binding of sediment particles by microbial activity or through mineral precipitation triggered by microbial metabolic processes.

In the northwestern section of Hapcheon Crater, the research team discovered numerous stromatolites, each measuring between 10 to 20 centimeters in diameter.

“Geochemical analysis of the stromatolites unveiled crucial features, including traces of extraterrestrial materials and surrounding rock, as well as indications of alteration due to hydrothermal activity,” the researchers explained.

The inner layer exhibits a stronger hydrothermal signal, suggesting formation during an earlier, hotter phase.

“These findings collectively support the idea that stromatolites evolved in hydrothermal lakes that gradually decreased in temperature after the impact event,” they added.

Analysis indicates that the Hapcheon collision occurred roughly 42,300 years ago.

This discovery sheds light on the Great Oxidation Event, a significant period around 2.4 billion years ago when Earth’s atmospheric oxygen levels surged,” the scientists noted.

The impact-induced hydrothermal lake likely provided a unique habitat for oxygen-producing microorganisms to flourish.

Such environments have been referred to by the research team as “oxygen oases.”

The study also raises the prospect of similar habitats existing on early Mars.

Since Mars is believed to have had water-filled impact craters in its early history, these cratered environments could serve as promising sites in the search for signs of past life.

“This research presents the first comprehensive evidence that stromatolites can form in hydrothermal lakes generated by asteroid impacts,” Lim remarked.

“Such conditions may have favored the development of early microbial ecosystems.”

For more details, refer to the study published in the Journal, Communication Earth and Environment, on April 16, 2026.

_____

J. Lim et al. 2026. Discovery of stromatolite formation in post-impact hydrothermal lake environments and its significance for early Earth. Communication Earth and Environment 7, 334; doi: 10.1038/s43247-026-03206-7

Source: www.sci.news

Rodent-Like Mammals Thrived in the Ancient Arctic Before Dinosaur Extinction

Posted on May 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists have identified three new species of multituberculate mammals: Camurodon, Kayaku Gluk Peregrinus, and Crab Cosmodon Polaris. These fascinating creatures thrived in the polar forests around 73 million years ago. Notably, Kayaku Gluk Peregrinus shows a strong connection to Mongolian species, providing the earliest direct evidence of polytuberculates migrating from Asia to North America. This discovery challenges the long-held belief that the Arctic was evolutionarily isolated.

Reconstruction of the Late Cretaceous paleoenvironment of Alaska. Image credit: James Havens.

These species ranged in size between a mouse and a rat. Multituberculates are notable for being the longest-surviving group of mammals in Earth’s history, existing for over 100 million years from the Jurassic period until the end of the Eocene epoch, about 35 million years ago.

Remarkably, they survived the Chicxulub impact that led to the extinction of non-avian dinosaurs 66 million years ago.

Scientists have been intrigued by the longevity of multituberculates, and the discovery of these three new Arctic species may hold vital clues.

Dr. Sarah Shelley, a paleontologist at the University of Lincoln, stated, “Although polar regions lack the biodiversity of tropical areas, they have been vibrant habitats where life has thrived for eons.”

Fossil teeth from Camurodon, Kayaku Gluk Peregrinus, and Crab Cosmodon Polaris were found in a deposit dating back 73 million years in the Prince Creek Formation, located in the Arctic Circle.

These ancient creatures thrived even in a harsh environment marked by long winters, freezing temperatures, and potential food shortages.

“These three new mammal species bolster evidence that this ancient Arctic region was a habitat for unique polar-adapted species,” noted Dr. Patrick Druckenmiller, a paleontologist at the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

The research revealed significant variations in tooth shape among the three species, implying that they likely had diverse diets.

Camurodon exhibited herbivorous teeth, while Kayaku Gluk Peregrinus displayed characteristics of an omnivore, likely consuming both insects and plants.

Crab Cosmodon Polaris also seems to have been omnivorous, with a possible diet primarily consisting of plants.

In environments with limited food sources, the ability to adapt and diversify diets may have been key to the coexistence of various multituberculate species.

“Such adaptability may have also enabled them to survive the asteroid impact,” Dr. Shelley observed.

Researchers found that Kayaku Gluk Peregrinus is closely related to species native to modern-day Mongolia, indicating that these ancestors migrated from Asia to North America.

This migration is estimated to have occurred around 92 million years ago, marking one of the earliest known instances of mammals crossing continents.

“This finding implies that there was a land route between Asia and North America that facilitated movement for these small mammals,” said Professor Jerin Eberle, curator at the University of Colorado Museum of Natural History.

“This land bridge was already active around 90 million years ago.”

This discovery adds to the understanding of how species have migrated across continents, reshaping ecosystems throughout history.

“This challenges our perspective on native species,” Dr. Shelley remarked.

“Deep moments like these remind us that a place isn’t merely a dot on a map, but a tapestry of overlapping histories related to its landscape and inhabitants.”

The findings are detailed in a recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

_____

Sarah L. Sherry et al. 2026. Arctic ecosystems influenced the dispersal and diversification of mammals prior to the Cretaceous-Paleogene mass extinction. PNAS 123 (22): e2601794123; doi: 10.1073/pnas.2601794123

Source: www.sci.news

New Jurassic Pterosaur Species Discovered in Germany: Insights into Ancient Flying Reptiles

Posted on May 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

A new genus and species of early monophenestratan pterosaur has been identified by paleontologists, based on a nearly complete and exceptionally preserved fossil skeleton found in Bavaria, Germany.

Holotype specimen of Laueropterus vitriolus viewed under natural light. Image credit: DWE Hone, doi: 10.7717/peerj.21204.

Pterosaurs were the first vertebrates to achieve powered flight, appearing roughly 210 million years ago and evolving from small birds to colossal creatures with wingspans comparable to small airplanes.

The newly described species, named Laueropterus vitriolus, belongs to a group of early pterosaurs known as monophenestratans. With a wingspan measuring approximately 1 meter (3.3 feet), it ranks among the largest members of this migratory group ever found.

“Early monofenestratans represent a relatively recent discovery in pterosaur evolution, first identified in 2010,” stated study author Dr. David Horne, a zoology reader at Queen Mary University of London.

“Through various analyses, these taxa were classified as both a clade and grade existing between non-monophenestratans and pterodactyls.”

“Some of the most advanced taxa have been designated as pterodactyls, representing derived monofenestratan and pterodactyl clades.”

The fossilized skeleton of Laueropterus vitriolus was unearthed in the Schaudyberg quarry around 2007, from the Mornsheim Formation.

This fossil dates back 150 to 143 million years (late Jurassic period), and includes the skull, jaw, spinal column, and most of the wings.

“The specimen is preserved on a sizable limestone slab measuring approximately 60 cm x 45 cm (2 feet x 1.5 feet),” Dr. Horne explained.

“The slab is predominantly gray, featuring thick white bars arranged at right angles that intersect at various points.”

“Pterosaur fossils are often exceptionally well-preserved and undistorted, allowing for clear outlines of thin elements such as the sternal plate.”

Laueropterus vitriolus exhibits a combination of both primitive and advanced features, including a large skull with a single opening that integrates the nostril and antorbital fenestra, characteristic of monophenestratan pterosaurs, alongside relatively short wing bones typical of earlier forms.

“Laueropterus vitriolus marks the fourth non-pterodactyl monophenestratan pterosaur discovered in Mülheim, alongside Skifosora, macrodactylus, and Rhamphodactylus,” Dr. Horne noted.

“This discovery represents the only other record of this grade in the region, with Proterodactylus found in much older deposits, highlighting that non-pterodactyl monophenestratans are significantly more common here.”

“Hundreds of pterosaur fossils have been excavated from the renowned Solnhofen Formation, yet fewer than a dozen non-pterodactyl monophenestratans have been documented in Mülheim, making this find exceptionally notable.”

The research findings were published online on May 11th in PeerJ.

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DWE Horne. 2026. A new, early monophenestratan pterosaur discovered from the Mornsheim Formation in southern Germany. PeerJ 14: e21204; doi: 10.7717/peerj.21204

Source: www.sci.news

Unlocking the Secrets of Laos’ Ancient Giant Stone Jars: Recent Discoveries Revealed

Posted on May 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Stone jars in Laos — Laos Pot Plains

Alvov/Shutterstock

Recent discoveries at the Plain of Jars in Laos have challenged our understanding of this ancient site, where at least 37 bodies have been unearthed from gigantic stone jars.

Spanning the remote Xieng Khouang Plateau, these enormous stone pots, some reaching heights of 3 meters and weighing several tons, have long been suspected to be linked to ancient burial practices.

Historical legends suggest that these jars were created for giants who brewed rice wine, according to Nick Skopal from James Cook University, Australia.

Findings from the 1930s hinted at a connection to the Iron Age (circa 500 B.C. to 500 A.D.), proposing that the jars may have played a role in cremation or the disposal of human remains. More recent studies have uncovered glass beads, burial artifacts, and cremated remains.

Recently, Skopal and his team excavated a jar measuring over 1.3 meters high and 2 meters wide near the town of Phonsavan, revealing the bones of 19 individuals, with teeth belonging to 37 people.

Radiocarbon dating indicates the remains date from the 9th to the 12th century AD, suggesting multiple burial events.

The arrangement of the bones indicates careful packing, with larger bones organized at the ends and many smaller bones likely missing due to decomposition.

This breakthrough is a key finding, as noted by Nigel Chan, also from James Cook University, who was not involved in the study. “This is the first investigation showing a definitive link to mortuary practices over the past century,” he stated.

Close to the larger jar were several smaller pots containing glass beads, suggesting a two-step burial process: initial storage in smaller jars followed by a transfer to the larger jars post-decomposition.

“Could these stone pots be part of rituals to honor ancestors or release their souls?” Skopal inquires. “DNA testing on the remains will reveal familial connections among these individuals.”

While the samples indicate when the jars were used, they do not ascertain the age of the jars themselves.

“Evidence indicates a significant activity around this site during the latter half of the first millennium AD,” Chan adds, while speculating that the jars may actually date back over 2000 years.

Although determining the jars’ age is challenging, Skopal noted their artifact dating aligns with the remains, supporting the theory that the jars were used for multiple generations. “The shift from an Iron Age context to a medieval cultural practice is becoming evident,” he states.

Excavated Stone Jar with Human Remains

Dr. Nicholas Skopal

According to Skopal, this practice has deep roots in ancestor worship, passed down through generations. However, variations exist among Laotian stone jars, with different customs observed across regions, such as upright jars in some areas and flat ones in others.

“It’s likely these jars were utilized by various cultural groups over extended periods,” suggests Tiatoshi Jamil of Nagaland University, India.

The excavation team also uncovered iron tools, pottery, copper bells, and glass beads inside the jars, revealing trade connections as far as southern India and Mesopotamia.

This is not surprising, as around 1000 AD was a flourishing time in East and Southeast Asia, highlighted by the Song Dynasty, Khmer Empire, and the pagan kingdoms of present-day Myanmar.

Marco Mitri is investigating similar stone jars at North Eastern Hill University in India. Archaeological findings in Northeast India indicate diverse cultural practices that resonate with these traditions.

Mitri theorizes that various Austro-Asian communities have practiced these funerary rituals for centuries, with modern parallels seen in groups like the Khasis in India, who still use stone boxes called cysts for bone deposits following cremation.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Newly Discovered Giant Dinosaur Species in Thailand Unveils Asia’s Hidden Diversity of Ancient Giants

Posted on May 15, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists have unveiled an exciting discovery: a new genus and species of Somphospondylan titanosaur dinosaur, heralded as the largest ever found in Southeast Asia. Fossilized bones uncovered in Thailand provide compelling evidence that this region once hosted a remarkably diverse array of giant herbivores during the Early Cretaceous period.

Reconstruction of the life of Nagatitan chaiyapumensis in the arid floodplains of the Late Early Cretaceous Aptian-Albian period. Image credit: Pachanop Boonsai.

This newly described dinosaur species inhabited what is now northeastern Thailand approximately 113 million years ago.

Named Nagatitan chaiyapumensis, this ancient giant measured about 27 meters (89 feet) in length and weighed between 25 and 28 tons.

During its time, it coexisted with smaller plant-eating dinosaurs like iguanodonts and early ceratopsians, as well as predatory dinosaurs such as carcharodontosaurs and spinosaurs, alongside sharks, turtles, crocodile relatives, and pterosaurs.

“Our dinosaur is large by most standards, likely weighing at least 10 tons more than Dippy” (referring to Diplodocus carnegie), stated lead author Titiut (Pers) Sesapanitisakul from University College London.

“However, it still pales in comparison to massive sauropods like Patagotitan (60 tons) and Luyangosaurus (50 tons).

The fossil of Nagatitan chaiyapumensis was excavated from the Khok Kruat Formation in Chaiyaphum Province, Thailand.

“We consider Nagatitan chaiyapumensis the ‘last giant’ of Thailand,” Sesapanitisakul explained, “because it was found in a rock formation that contains the youngest dinosaurs.”

“Younger sediment deposited towards the end of the dinosaur era is unlikely to reveal dinosaur remains, as the area transformed into a shallow ocean by then.”

“This could represent the final or most recent large sauropod discovered in Southeast Asia.”

To classify Nagatitan chaiyapumensis, paleontologists compared its anatomy with over 150 other dinosaur species, situating it within the sauropod family tree.

The analysis established that the new species belongs to Euhelopodidae, a group of Somphospondylan titanosaurs primarily found in Asia.

This group also includes notable species such as Puwiangosaurus cylindornae from Thailand and Tanvayosaurus hofeti from Laos.

“This discovery highlights a trend of increased body size among Asian titanosaurs during the Mid-Cretaceous, likely driven by rising temperatures and the expansion of suitable habitats,” the researchers commented.

The identification of Nagatitan chaiyapumensis enhances the known diversity of sauropods in Southeast Asia and significantly contributes to our understanding of titanosaurs’ biogeography in this region.

The team’s paper has been published in the scientific journal Scientific Reports.

_____

T. Setapanitisakul et al. 2026. The first sauropod dinosaur discovered from the Early Cretaceous Khok Kruat Formation in Thailand enriches the diversity of vertebrate titanosaurids in Southeast Asia. Scientific Reports 16, 12467; doi: 10.1038/s41598-026-47482-x

Source: www.sci.news

New Study Reveals Ancient Earth Experienced Repeated Melting Events During Catastrophic Ice Ages

Posted on May 14, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

During the Neoproterozoic Era (1 billion to 538.8 million years ago), Earth underwent dramatic climate fluctuations, notably the Sturtian Ice Age, where ice is believed to have enveloped the planet. Understanding the geological record and the survival of life during this pivotal event has remained a significant challenge. Geochronological studies indicate that the Sturtian Ice Age persisted for an astonishing 56 million years, far exceeding predictions made by conventional climate models. A recent study from Harvard University proposes that Earth may have experienced cycles of ice-covered and ice-free states during the Sturtian period.

Artist’s impression of ‘Snowball Earth’. Image credit: Oleg Kuznetsov, http://3depix.com/ CC BY-SA 4.0.

“The global glaciation that occurred near the advent of animal life, known as the Neoproterozoic Snowball Earth event, represents one of the most severe climate transformations in Earth’s history and likely had profound effects on biological evolution,” stated Charlotte Minsky, a Harvard graduate student, along with her research team.

“However, the causes, severity, and ecological impacts of these glaciations continue to be the subject of intense debate.”

Employing a coupled model of ancient climate systems and the global carbon cycle, researchers propose that Earth was not trapped in a singular, incessant snowball state.

Their simulations indicate that extensive weathering of basalt in the Franklin Igneous Province, a significant volcanic area in northern Canada that likely erupted prior to the Sturtian Ice Age, dramatically reduced atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, leading to multiple global ice ages.

As volcanic activity and other processes gradually rebuilt atmospheric carbon dioxide, global temperatures rose, ice melted, and previously covered basalt regions were exposed once more.

This renewed decomposition through weathering replenished carbon dioxide, triggering another snowball cycle.

The authors contend that this recurring cycle of freezing and thawing driven by carbon dioxide could sustain glacial and interglacial variations for tens of millions of years.

The mechanisms revealed in this study address several longstanding discrepancies, particularly the duration of the Sturtian Ice Age, which was previously challenging to reconcile with established climate models.

This research aligns with sedimentation patterns from that era, elucidating how atmospheric oxygen levels could remain stable amidst extreme climatic shifts.

Moreover, frequent returns to warmer, ice-free states may have been critical in preventing a total collapse of atmospheric oxygen.

“This discovery may elucidate how aerobic life continued to thrive throughout such severe intervals,” Minsky noted.

For more details, refer to the study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

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Charlotte Minsky et al. 2026. The snowball greenhouse cycle repeats within Neoproterozoic Sturtian glaciers. PNAS 123 (19): e2525919123; doi: 10.1073/pnas.2525919123

Source: www.sci.news

Ancient Teeth Reveal Connections Between Denisovans and Homo Erectus

Posted on May 14, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

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A tooth discovered in Sunjiadong, China. *Homo erectus*.

Credit: Qiaomei Fu, Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Chinese Academy of Sciences

Fossilized tooth of homo erectus from Sunjiadong, China — A tooth discovered in Sunjiadong, China. *Homo erectus*.

Credit: Qiaomei Fu, Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Chinese Academy of Sciences

For the first time, researchers have successfully extracted significant amounts of preserved protein from fossils attributed to ancient humans, specifically Homo erectus.

While previous discoveries of H. erectus fossils exist, this is the first instance revealing substantial insights into this species. The recovered protein indicates interbreeding between H. erectus and another ancient Asian hominin, the Denisovans.

H. erectus is recognized as one of the longest-lived and widely dispersed species of hominins. They emerged in Africa approximately 2 million years ago and reached Eurasia around 1.8 million years ago, as evidenced by fossils found in Dmanisi, Georgia. Notably, some traveled to the island of Java, now part of Indonesia, where they thrived until roughly 108,000 years ago.

In 2020, a research team led by Fried Welker from the University of Copenhagen successfully extracted protein from the tooth enamel of a H. erectus specimen from Dmanisi. While this provided proof that proteins could be recovered from ancient fossils, John Hawkes of the University of Wisconsin-Madison noted that the data gathered was underwhelming, lacking substantial information about the Dmanisi fossils.

Recently, a team led by Qiao Meifu at the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology in Beijing analyzed proteins from six designated H. erectus teeth. These specimens are approximately 400,000 years old and were sourced from various Chinese sites, including Zhoukoudian, Hexian, and Sunjiadong. The team identified a distinctive protein called amelogenin Y, finding that five teeth belonged to males, while one belonged to a female.

Mr. Fu did not respond to interview requests.

Among the six teeth analyzed, two unique protein variants were identified. One variant had not been observed in any human population, suggesting it is characteristic of H. erectus. The other variant was previously identified in Denisovans, who inhabited East Asia during the last several hundred thousand years. This raises intriguing questions about Denisovan interbreeding with an unidentified hominin group, potentially linked to H. erectus.

Hawkes acknowledges that while this interpretation is plausible, it’s merely one of three possible explanations for the data.

The critical uncertainty for Hawkes lies in whether the six teeth genuinely belong to H. erectus. Although results from the three sites seem reliable, the isolated tooth raises doubts regarding its classification, as its morphology does not match known H. erectus characteristics. Additionally, the historical context of H. erectus fossils in China complicates this determination, since all previously discovered fossils date back over a million years.

Hawkes posits an alternative scenario where the group may not actually be H. erectus at all but could be Denisovan. This potential mutation in protein may reflect variation within Denisovan populations. Supporting this idea, recent research analyzing Denisovan DNA across 30 modern human populations has indicated connections from three distinct Denisovan groups, each of which interbred with early Homo sapiens.

Alternatively, if the interbreeding between Denisovans and H. erectus did occur, Hu’s team suggested it hints at a lineage of Denisovans possessing H. erectus traits.

To resolve these possibilities, more fossil and molecular data will be essential, as noted by Hawkes.

Such uncertainties are not uncommon, as the study of ancient proteins is still in its nascent stages. Hawkes compares these early challenges to those faced during the initial exploration of ancient DNA.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Arctic Fires Release Ancient Carbon: The Impact of Climate Change on Long-Stored Carbon Emissions

Posted on May 13, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

In 2025, wildfires will severely impact the boreal forest of Manitoba, Canada.

Anadolu (via Getty Images)

The increasing frequency of wildfires across the Arctic is having a more substantial impact on global warming than previously understood. While initial assumptions suggested that primarily recent vegetation was burning, soil core studies reveal that these fires are igniting ancient carbon deposits accumulated for over 5,000 years.

“Soil combustion has the potential to release long-term stored carbon from soil, which was previously considered a carbon sink,” explains Meri Rappel from the Finnish Meteorological Institute in Helsinki. Current climate models neglect the release of this ancient carbon.

In the cold conditions of the Arctic, plant growth is slow, leading to the accumulation of organic matter in the soil as peat and other forms over centuries or even millennia. This factor positions Arctic and adjacent boreal soils as significant carbon sinks, which effectively remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

However, increasing wildfire incidents are changing this dynamic. Rappel’s research team has collected soil cores from recently burned areas to study the impact of these fires.

Their findings indicate that while surface vegetation may burn quickly, the underlying organic material smolders for a longer duration, releasing considerable amounts of soot and carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

Black carbon, a byproduct of these fires, absorbs sunlight, contributing directly to atmospheric warming. Moreover, in colder regions, black carbon can accumulate on ice and snow, accelerating melting processes that would otherwise not occur.

“We discovered that the age of the carbon released during fires varied significantly depending on soil depth and burn intensity,” Rappel stated during the European Geosciences Union Conference in Vienna.

The risk of releasing ancient carbon is particularly high as it tends to increase toward the North Pole, where organic matter accumulates close to the surface. For instance, in Canada’s Northwest Territories, fires are penetrating soil just a few centimeters deep, unleashing carbon stored for up to 400 years.

In Greenland, fires can consume up to 10 centimeters of soil, releasing carbon that is over 560 years old, with some areas experiencing burns of up to 15 centimeters, releasing carbon that has been stored for 1,000 years.

Remarkably, a boreal forest site in Quebec, Canada, has been identified where fires released carbon dating back 5,000 years. “However, this occurrence is not widespread,” said Ruppel at the conference.

The critical question remains: how much ancient carbon is currently being released by wildfires? Rappel emphasizes that this study is merely the starting point, indicating the need for further research to quantify the released carbon.

“Rappel’s work is vital and underscores the urgency,” noted Sandy Harrison from the University of Reading. “It’s evident that substantial old carbon exists in high-latitude soils and peat. As new fire regimes evolve, destroying topsoil layers and peatlands, this ancient carbon will be released into the atmosphere.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Unveiling Britain’s Past: Study Shows Minimal Roman Influence in Ancient DNA Analysis

Posted on May 11, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

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This Victorian-era chromolithograph illustrates Boudica’s revolt against the Romans around 60 AD.

Credit: Popper Photo (Getty Images)

Boudica's Rebellion Against the Romans — This Victorian-era chromolithograph illustrates Boudica’s revolt against the Romans around 60 AD.

Credit: Popper Photo (Getty Images)

Recent studies highlight the limited genetic influence of Roman occupation on modern British populations, revealing surprising insights into Britain’s genetic history.

“The Roman conquest’s genetic impact seems to be far less significant than previously thought,” says Rachel Pope, a PhD candidate at the University of Liverpool, who wasn’t involved in the research.

<p><a href="https://www.crick.ac.uk/research/find-a-researcher/marina-soares-da-silva">Marina Soares da Silva</a> and her team at the Francis Crick Institute analyzed the genomes of 1,039 ancient Britons, dating from the Bronze Age (2550 BC - 1150 AD) following the Norman Conquest. Roman rule in Britain lasted from 43 AD to 410 AD.</p>

<p>The findings indicated that nearly 100% of individuals living during the Roman period shared ancestry solely with Iron Age Britons, with only 20% exhibiting genetic contributions from outside Britain.</p>

<p>"Given the extensive lifestyle changes during Roman times, the mere 20% genetic influence is astonishing," notes <a href="https://www.lancashire.ac.uk/academics/duncan-sayer">Duncan Thayer</a> from the University of Lancashire, who wasn't part of the study. "I anticipated a more diverse genetic mix."</p>

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<p>"This implies that the Roman conquest was less about altering genetics and more about transforming lifestyles," Thayer explains. "Their focus was on converting Britain into a series of exploitable economies, driven by a select few."</p>

<p>This aligns with previous research indicating <a href="https://academic.oup.com/mbe/article/41/9/msae168/7741671?login=false">minimal Roman genetic influence in rural regions</a>.</p>

<p>One notable area where the Romans influenced British society was in burial customs. Pre-Roman evidence suggests that women had significant autonomy, with practices such as matrilocality where women remained in their ancestral homes as men migrated.</p>

<p>In Iron Age Britain, burial practices typically followed maternal lineage, with individuals buried alongside maternal relatives rather than spouses. Silva and her research team discovered more sites in southwestern England evidencing these matrilineal burials extending into the late Iron Age.</p>

<p>"This discovery was unexpected, particularly the implications in the western regions," says Pope.</p>

<p>However, Roman burial sites displayed no discernible family patterns, suggesting a departure from Iron Age customs and lifestyles.</p>

<p>Pope notes that the enduring legacy of Boudica, the Aisni queen who led a revolt against the Roman Empire around 60 AD, reflects this loss. "Her story symbolizes a woman protesting against the inability to inherit property."</p>

<p>After the Romans departed, significant genetic changes occurred. Between 400 and 600 AD, various Germanic tribes like the Angles, Saxons, and Jutes migrated to and established dominance over modern England. The Anglo-Saxon populace remained influential until the Norman Conquest in 1066.</p>

<p>Silva’s analysis revealed a prominent influx of ancestry tied to Germanic-speaking tribes by the 6th century, impacting over 70% of the Anglo-Saxon demographic in southern Britain.</p>

<p>This observation parallels findings by <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-022-05247-2">Thayer's research team</a>, where about 76% of genomes from the same era indicated similar genetic markers.</p>

<p>The results indicated a clustering of ancestral profiles, establishing a population labeled as early medieval Britain I. From the 8th to 10th century, this genetic lineage saw a decline, with increased presence from central and southern European ancestries.</p>

<p>The genetic influence of the Viking population was shown to be limited, despite the establishment of the Danelaw region, which was under Viking control from the 9th to 11th centuries. During this period, only 4% of Britons could trace their ancestry back to Iron Age Scandinavia.</p>

<p>This trend can be accounted for through two stages of Viking incursions, Thayer affirms. In earlier raids, genetics were predominantly Scandinavian, as Vikings captured individuals from Ireland and England. Conversely, later invasions resulted in a diverse genetic mix due to existing populations in Britain.</p>

<p>Silva's team analyzed 69 genomes from the post-Norman Conquest period, discovering similar evidence of genetic stagnation post-invasion, although most genomes were from a singular site in Leicester, limiting generalizability across the country.</p>

<p>Pope concludes that these findings illustrate the dynamic genetic influx into the UK from diverse populations across Europe. "What does it mean to be English?"</p>

<p>Thayer suggests, "Perhaps we are imposing modern concepts of ethnicity that held different significances in the past."</p>

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            <h3 class="SpecialArticleUnit__Heading">Discovering Hadrian's Wall: An Insight into Roman Innovations</h3>
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                <p>Experience history firsthand on an immersive walking tour along Hadrian's Wall, one of Britain's most iconic ancient monuments and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.</p>
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    <p class="ArticleTopics__Heading">Topics Covered:</p>
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Source: www.newscientist.com

How Bronze Age Britons Crafted Copper Mining Tools from Ancient Bones

Posted on May 7, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Bronze Age Tools: Wedges Made from Limb Bones

O. Zagorodnia

Bronze Age Mining Tools — Bronze Age Tools: Wedges Made from Limb Bones

O. Zagorodnia

Despite having the technology for metal tools, communities in Bronze Age Britain effectively utilized animal bone tools in conjunction with metal for copper extraction over nine centuries, from 3700 to 2800 years ago.

A detailed study of 150 bones from a Bronze Age copper mining site at Great Orme, North Wales, reveals that these bones were deliberately chosen and crafted for specific mining tasks, particularly for extracting copper from soft rocks.

“This discovery challenges the conventional belief that Bronze Age mining relied predominantly on metal and stone tools. A more diverse and adaptable toolkit is emerging,” says Olga Zagorodnia from the British Museum.

Since the early 1990s, over 30,000 bone fragments have been unearthed at the site. Preliminary studies show that more than half of these fragments originate from cattle, with the rest primarily from sheep, goats, and pigs. Some bones are suspected to have served functional roles as tools, as noted in a 2011 study that identified wear patterns indicative of tool use.

By employing high-resolution microscopy, Zagorodnia and White analyzed the wear marks on the 150 bones. They replicated mining activities using bone tool replicas to compare wear patterns with those on ancient specimens.

“Notably, we observed rapid post-consumer wear development, which corroborated our microscopic findings,” remarks White. “Our experiments with bone splitting produced circular fracture patterns that mirrored those found in the archaeological samples, creating a tangible link to the ancient miners.”

The findings imply that these bones were purposefully modified into various tools, including wedges fashioned from limb bones for splitting soft rocks potentially rich in copper. Evidence of tapering and polishing suggests that some tools were designed to be affixed to a handle, akin to a metal pick, a significant new discovery.

Scoops Crafted from Scapula and Pelvic Bones

O. Zagorodnia

Conversely, rib bones likely served to carve through soft sandy limestone, possibly acting as scrapers or agitators to enhance copper separation during ore processing. Moreover, researchers identified tools fashioned from scapula or pelvis bones that may have been utilized for shoveling or scraping fine ore.

“The evidence from Great Orme signifies a continuation of long-established technological practices, predating metalworking.” Researchers posit that bones, as readily available resources in pastoral societies, offered a labor-efficient alternative to crafting metal tools.

The findings align with those from other prehistoric mining sites across Europe, where bone tools have been discovered. “Bronze Age communities in Britain and Europe didn’t merely switch to metal; they employed an integrated approach, utilizing both materials creatively,” notes White. “This reflects a profound understanding of material properties and hints at organized mining techniques involving specialized tools and potentially skilled labor.”

“Both authors introduce a remarkable level of scientific rigor to this unique field of artifact research.” states freelance archaeologist Simon Timberlake from Cambridge, UK. “To fully grasp the advancements that transitioned Stone Age technology into the Metal Age, we must thoroughly investigate the tools they employed.”

Discover the Origins of Humanity and Prehistoric Times in South-West England

Engage in an enriching experience of the early human eras, including the Neolithic, Bronze Age, and Iron Age, with this gentle walking tour.

Topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Ancient Bite Marks Reveal Tyrannosaurus: The Multifaceted Behavior of a Legendary Predator

Posted on May 6, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

A transformative study conducted by paleontologists at Aarhus University challenges the long-held belief that tyrannosaurs were exclusively apex predators. By analyzing 16 meticulously mapped bite marks on the bones of a 75-million-year-old Tyrannosaurus rex, researchers found that smaller Tyrannosaurs scavenged on their larger tyrannosaurid relatives.

Visualization of a small Tyrannosaurus rex eating the carcass of a larger Tyrannosaurus. Image credit: Yu Xin, Shen Li, Liang Junwei, Aarhus University.

“Tyrannosaurus was the apex terrestrial predator in the Northern Hemisphere during the Late Cretaceous period,” stated lead author Josephine Nielsen, a master’s student at Aarhus University, alongside her research team.

“Species found in the Campanian region of the northern interior of western North America include Daspletosaurus and Gorgosaurus.”

“Tyrannosaurs were substantial predatory carnivores with massive skulls capable of enduring extreme bite forces and stresses.”

“Bites can crush and process bones, even from prey significantly larger than themselves, as evidenced by coprolites containing bone fragments.”

“However, such fossils do not provide direct evidence of biting strength, and debates continue concerning the feeding strategies of Tyrannosaurus and their ecological interactions.”

Nielsen and her colleagues utilized advanced 3D scanning technology to identify 16 bite marks on a fossilized metatarsal (foot bone) of a giant tyrannosaur.

“By examining the depth, angle, and position of the bite marks in a virtual 3D setting, we demonstrated that these marks were not incidental,” Nielsen remarked.

“These distinct tooth impressions of a smaller tyrannosaurus indicate scavenging on much larger relatives.”

This groundbreaking study sheds light on the recycling of resources in the age of dinosaurs, revealing their behaviors as scavengers.

The robust leg bones may have been consumed late in the decomposition phase, after most of the flesh had been stripped away.

“The bone lacks signs of healing after a bite from a smaller dinosaur,” Nielsen noted.

“The marks were found on a foot that had minimal flesh, indicating the dinosaur was possibly ‘sweeping’ and scavenging the last remnants of a carcass.”

The authors conducted their research using digital models and 3D printed replicas instead of original bones.

The metatarsals measured 10 cm in length and belonged to a tyrannosaurid estimated to be between 10 to 12 meters long and weighing several tons during its lifetime.

The bones were uncovered by amateur fossil hunters in the Judith River Formation in Montana. This region is an eroded landscape that acts as a geological archive of a 75-million-year-old ecosystem, teeming with dinosaur fossils.

“What makes this study exceptional is not only the insight into ancient dinosaur food chains, but also the innovative technology employed to extract these details.”

“By developing a digital version, we can now zoom in on intricate details.”

For more in-depth findings, visit this study published in the journal Evolving Earth.

_____

Josephine Nielsen et al. 2026. Investigating size-asymmetric feeding in tyrannosaurids using metatarsal tooth impressions from the Judith River Formation, Montana, USA. Evolving Earth 4:100107; doi: 10.1016/j.eve.2026.100107

Source: www.sci.news

Ancient Sauropod Dinosaur Fossil Discovered in China: Insights into Prehistoric Giants

Posted on May 5, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

A newly discovered genus and species of Masopodan sauropodomorph, named Kounryu Hōmei, has been identified from a partial skeleton found in southwestern China, dating back to the early Jurassic period. This remarkable dinosaur represents a crucial link between early herbivores and the massive four-legged sauropods that would later dominate the Mesozoic Era.

Artist’s impression of Kounryu Hōmei. Image credit: Connor Ashbridge / CC BY 4.0.

Kounryu Hōmei inhabited what is now China approximately 190 million years ago during the early Jurassic period.

Fossil evidence suggests that this dinosaur measured about 9 to 10 meters (30 to 33 feet) in length, making it one of the largest known early-branching sauropods unearthed in China.

This species belongs to the Masopodan group, which existed from the Late Triassic to the Late Cretaceous.

“The Early Jurassic was a key era in dinosaur evolution, marking the diversification and emergence of sauropod dominance in terrestrial ecosystems,” stated Dr. Ya-Ming Wang from the China Museum of Geology and colleagues.

“Within this group, non-sauropod Masopoda sauropods played a significant role in the evolutionary trajectory leading to the distinctive large body shapes associated with sauropods.”

“Therefore, understanding the anatomy, diversity, and paleobiogeography of these early-diverging sauropods is essential for unraveling the origins of one of the most successful dinosaur clades, the sauropods.”

The partial skeleton of Kounryu Hōmei was discovered in the Fengjiahe Formation located in Luming Town, Yunnan Province, China.

The specimen consists of the neck, back, tail vertebrae, and part of the hip joint.

Analysis of these fossils revealed an unusual combination of traits, indicating an alternative evolutionary path. Notably, it had a strong, elongated tail rather than the long neck typically associated with large dinosaurs.

Despite its relatively short neck for its body size, the tail may have played a balancing role, enabling this dinosaur to stand on its hind legs and feed.

Through phylogenetic analysis, researchers found that Kounryu Hōmei occupies a pivotal evolutionary position between early sauropods and more advanced forms closer to true sauropods.

“The discovery of this new specimen greatly enriches the known Early Jurassic dinosaur fauna of southwestern China,” the authors remarked.

“This provides essential new anatomical features that enhance our understanding of morphological differences and evolutionary patterns among early-diverging sauropods.”

The findings were published in the Royal Society Open Science on March 25th.

_____

Hu Shaobin et al. 2026. A neosauropod dinosaur discovered from the Lower Jurassic Fengjiahe Formation in Dali, Yunnan Province, China. R Soc Open Science 13 (3): 252219; doi: 10.1098/rsos.252219

Source: www.sci.news

Ancient 300-Year-Old Experiment Poised to Revolutionize Dark Matter Detection

Posted on May 4, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Dark Matter: The Dominant Force in the Universe

Image processing by ESA/Euclid/Euclid Consortium/NASA; M. Schirmer (MPIA, Heidelberg)

Centuries of scientific experimentation are paving the way for a breakthrough in the hunt for new particles, particularly those believed to constitute dark matter.

In 1773, British scientist Henry Cavendish initiated an experiment aimed at unraveling the mysteries of electromagnetism, involving the measurement of electrical potential on two nested metal shells to examine interactions of charged particles.

Now, Peter Graham, a professor at Stanford University, suggests reviving Cavendish’s historic experiment could illuminate the enigmatic particles forming dark matter.

Dark matter, which constitutes a significant portion of our universe, remains poorly understood. Numerous theories have emerged regarding its composition, and experiments range from particle colliders to advanced underground detectors.

Graham and his research team are focusing on a dark matter candidate known as milli-charged particles (mCPs). True to its name, mCP has an exceptionally small charge, rendering it suitable for Cavendish’s original experimental setup.

The team proposes recreating the nested shell design, applying a voltage to the outer shell and measuring the voltage difference to detect the presence of mCPs during the experiment.

Exploring Electromagnetism: Henry Cavendish’s 18th Century Experiments

Cavendish Institute

To enhance the experimental design, the team plans to incorporate an accumulator device to effectively extract all charged particles from the surrounding environment, maximizing the potential for mCP detection, according to Harikrishnan Ramani of the University of Delaware.

This innovative design is cost-effective compared to other mCP explorations, estimated at under $1 million—1,000 times less than operating a particle accelerator for a year. Preliminary calculations indicate it could be more sensitive than future collider experiments.

Researchers like Kevin Kelly from Texas A&M University believe this experimental approach could potentially outperform existing methods by a factor of 100 to 10,000, capable of detecting mCPs with even lower charges than previously thought.

According to Christopher Hill at Ohio State University, this technique may surpass some current experiments. He posits that it could accelerate the timeline for significant discoveries regarding the composition and functioning of our universe.

The research team is currently in the final stages of planning the experiment and securing funding. If successful, they aim to execute the project within two to three years, potentially offering a new avenue for studying mCPs.

Topics:

dark matter/
particle physics

Source: www.newscientist.com

Ancient Universe Theory Faces Potential Overhaul: A Century-Old Hypothesis at Risk

Posted on April 27, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Our Incredibly Bumpy Universe

NASA, ESA, IPAC/California Institute of Technology, STScI, Arizona State University

Our incredibly bumpy universe — Our Incredibly Bumpy Universe

NASA, ESA, IPAC/California Institute of Technology, STScI, Arizona State University

New evidence suggests that the assumptions physicists have held about our universe for over a century might soon be challenged. This emerging research indicates that our universe is far more clumpy than previously believed, potentially unraveling some of today’s most perplexing cosmological mysteries.

In cosmological modeling, simplifications are often made due to the inability to account for all galaxies. Generally, cosmologists assume that the universe is homogeneous and isotropic at large scales, meaning it appears largely uniform in all directions.

This prevailing view is referenced as the FLRW model, named after Alexander Friedmann, Georges Lemaître, Howard Robertson, and Arthur Jeffrey Walker, who developed these ideas in the 1920s. Most cosmological observations rely on this model, but new evidence emerging in three preprint papers could indicate a fundamental flaw.

The first paper, authored by Timothy Clifton from Queen Mary University of London and Asta Heinessen from the University of Copenhagen, presents a novel method to assess the accuracy of FLRW models in describing our universe. You can view it here: A new way to determine whether FLRW models can accurately describe our universe.

This analysis utilizes various formulas for cosmic distances inferred from supernova observations and the density variations of matter. If the FLRW model holds true, certain outcomes should equal zero; hence, a nonzero result may indicate the necessity for a new model. Prior tests have been proposed, but none have definitively signaled flaws in the FLRW framework.

In subsequent papers, linked as second and third, Heinessen and Sophie Marie Cockvin from the University of Southern Denmark undertook this distance measurement challenge using available cosmological data.

Successfully navigating this challenge, the duo employed AI-driven symbolic regression techniques to derive formulas fitting existing distance measurements without relying on the FLRW model, which previous analyses had done. Their results were striking, demonstrating non-zero findings that suggest the FLRW model may be flawed.

“We were surprised by this result, as it challenges much of the established understanding,” Heinesen comments.

“These findings imply a level of complexity in the universe that wasn’t previously recognized,” Clifton expresses. He regards this as a potential first indication that the FLRW model is inadequate, “opening new avenues for exploration and enlightenment.”

Although these findings are promising, they have not yet met the rigorous statistical thresholds required by cosmologists for confirmation. The team will await additional astronomical data that will materialize over the coming years.

However, this development could lead to significant implications for cosmology. The field has wrestled with the puzzling discrepancies surrounding the universe’s expansion rate, as well as the inconsistency between its earlier formation and current behavior. Recent observations have also suggested that dark energy may be evolving.

Clifton proposes that these core enigmas in cosmology could be elucidated by a universe lacking homogeneity. Such averages in measurements may not hold steady over time, he explains.

Subodh Patil from Leiden University notes the importance of cautious interpretation of the data but appreciates the overall approach. “My initial impression is commendable; they are asking the crucial questions,” Patil states.

Topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com