Neanderthals have intrigued people ever since they were discovered in the 1800s. Originally, their unique skull shapes made scientists think of them as an evolutionary mistake. However, recent research shows they were intelligent and even mingled with early modern humans.
In 2025, several groundbreaking discoveries shed light on Neanderthals’ biology and culture. Here’s a look at some of the key findings and what they tell us about human evolution.
### 1. Neanderthals Controlled Fire
In a major find, researchers revealed that Neanderthals in England controlled fire over 400,000 years ago. They found evidence, like charred soil and tools, indicating that these early humans might have created fire deliberately. Until now, scientists debated whether hominids used natural fires or if they actually made their own. This discovery shows Neanderthals could adapt to their cold environments, proving their intelligence.
### 2. Cannibalism Among Neanderthals
A study in Belgium uncovered the remains of Neanderthal women and children that showed signs of cannibalism. This suggests that some groups might have targeted outsiders for food. While this isn’t the first evidence of Neanderthal cannibalism, it highlights complex social behaviors, especially during tough times.
### 3. The Oldest Known Fingerprint
A rock found in Spain contains what could be the world’s oldest fingerprint, likely made by a Neanderthal 43,000 years ago. This finding might hint at Neanderthals’ capacity for symbolic thought, showcasing their creativity.
### 4. Early “Crayons” for Art
Researchers in Crimea discovered that Neanderthals might have used pieces of ochre as early “crayons” for artistic expression, as far back as 100,000 years ago. The ochre tools showed signs of frequent sharpening, hinting they were used for more than just functional tasks. This suggests Neanderthals appreciated art, which is a distinctly human trait.
### 5. Genetic Differences in Energy Use
A study published in July found that Neanderthals carried a variant of a gene, AMPD1, that affected energy production in their muscles. This gene made it harder for them to perform intense physical activities, likely impacting their stamina and adaptation to different environments, as noted by experts in sports genetics.
### 6. Susceptibility to Lead Poisoning
Research determined that Neanderthals were more prone to lead poisoning compared to modern humans. High lead levels can severely affect brain function, which could have put Neanderthals at a disadvantage during resource scarcity. This finding emphasizes how environmental toxins could have impacted their survival.
### 7. “Fat Factories” for Survival
In Germany, researchers unearthed a site where Neanderthals extracted fat from animal bones. This “fat factory” allowed them to gather a vital energy source and adapt to their high-protein diets, showcasing their innovative foraging methods similar to early modern humans.
### 8. A Missing Gene
Investigations into the ADSL gene reveal that Neanderthals had a more active variant compared to modern humans. This gene is crucial for DNA synthesis, and deficiencies can lead to cognitive issues. While it’s unclear if this affected Neanderthals, it indicates genetic differences in brain function.
### 9. Population Decline
Researchers observed that Neanderthals experienced a population bottleneck around 110,000 years ago, leading to less genetic diversity. This loss may have contributed to difficulties in adapting to changing environments.
### 10. Blood Type Complications
Neanderthals had unique blood types that may have posed problems when mating with other human species. For instance, Rh incompatibility could lead to high risks in childbirth. Studies suggest that these blood type issues could have played a pivotal role in their extinction.
These discoveries paint a richer picture of Neanderthals as complex beings, sharing many traits with us. As research continues, we’ll likely uncover even more about these fascinating ancestors and their role in our evolutionary story.
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