Groundbreaking Study Reveals Early Human Adaptability
By CHRISTINA LARSON, AP Science Writer
WASHINGTON (AP) — A new study published in Nature sheds light on the remarkable adaptability of early Homo sapiens, which enabled them to thrive in diverse environments long before their migration out of Africa approximately 50,000 years ago. Researchers, led by evolutionary archaeologist Eleanor Scerri of the Max Planck Institute, emphasize that humans are "ecosystem generalists," capable of surviving in areas ranging from rainforests to deserts.
The research highlights a critical shift in human adaptability around 70,000 years ago, as archaeological data reveals that ancient humans began to inhabit increasingly challenging environments. Co-author Emily Hallett from Loyola University Chicago explains that instead of a single technological breakthrough, it was this newfound ecological flexibility that propelled successful migrations.
While evidence indicates other human ancestors also left Africa, including Neanderthals, the study seeks to clarify how Homo sapiens distinguished themselves during this significant period. The findings contribute to our understanding of why only our species remains today, posing further questions about the evolutionary path taken by early humans.
The study underscores the deep-seated adaptability of our species, which has allowed us to populate nearly every corner of the globe.
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