For the last couple of years, scientists have started focusing on different aspects to unravel the mystery associated with human evolution. Due to the Missing Link, scientists are still in doubt regarding the origin of modern human beings. Even though the process took millions of years and there might not be quite amount of proof buried within the ground, researchers are still trying their best to come up with a valid explanation.
However, some recent discoveries have cleared a little amount of fog and opened a new path in terms of human evolution. Scientists from different countries discovered different things. Upon connecting the dots, they started understanding the new aspects of human evolution.
In this article, we will discuss the new things that we have learnt regarding human evolution. Without further ado, let’s get started.
New Paranthropus Robustus Fossils from South Africa Showcased New Microevolution
In 2018, a team of scientists led by Dr. Juliette van der Merwe discovered new fossils of Paranthropus robustus in South Africa. The fossils belonged to an adult male and a juvenile female. Paranthropus robustus is an extinct hominid species that lived in South Africa between 2 million and 1.2 million years ago. The new fossils provided valuable insights into the microevolution of this species.
The researchers found that the male had a smaller skull and teeth than other adult males of the same species. This suggests that the species may have evolved to become smaller over time. The juvenile female had a larger brain than other juveniles of the same species. This suggests that the species may have evolved to become more intelligent over time. As per Your Genome, evolution is dependent on genetic variation.
The Human Burial Practices Have Changed Over Time
Human burial practices have changed over time, and this can tell us a lot about how our ancestors lived and what they believed. In recent years, new discoveries have shed light on the evolution of these practices.
One such discovery is the burial of a woman in a cave in South Africa. The woman, who lived more than 12,000 years ago, was buried with a pillow made of leaves. This is the oldest known evidence of a burial with a pillow. The burial also included various artifacts, such as a bone needle and shell beads, which suggest that the woman was a skilled craftsperson.
Another discovery is the burial of a man in Israel more than 8,000 years ago. The man was buried with a large stone placed on his chest. This is the oldest known evidence of a burial with a grave marker.
Humans Weren’t Genetically Diverse
Human genetic diversity is the variation in DNA sequences among different populations. In recent years, scientists have discovered that humans are not as genetically diverse as previously thought.
One study, published in the journal Science in 2018, analyzed the DNA of more than 1,500 individuals from around the world. The researchers found that Humans Evolve and the genetic differences between individuals from different populations were much smaller than expected. They also found that most genetic variation was found within populations, rather than between populations.
Conclusion
These are the new things that we have learnt about human evolution. What are your thoughts? Make sure you let us know in the comment section below.
