Smithsonian Magazine · People & society

Denisovan Fossils and Tools Unearthed in China

A significant discovery of Denisovan fossils and tools in a cave in southwestern China is providing new insights into the lives of these extinct human relatives.

Denisovans, a group of archaic humans who lived in Asia between 400,000 and 30,000 years ago, have largely remained a mystery due to the scarcity of fossil evidence compared to Neanderthals.

Researchers analyzed over 60,000 bone fragments from Bianfu Cave in China's Yunnan Province, using protein analysis to identify Denisovan remains.

The findings include skull fragments, teeth, and a forearm bone from at least four individuals who lived between 134,000 and 167,000 years ago. The forearm bone shows similarities to Neanderthals but more closely resembles modern humans, potentially offering functional advantages for manipulation.

While DNA could not be preserved due to the cave's conditions, the unearthed fossils are significant for understanding Denisovan anatomy.

Over 1,300 stone and bone tools, believed to be crafted by Denisovans, were also found. These tools are simpler than those made by Neanderthals and suggest a flexible adaptation strategy.

Evidence from cut marks on animal bones indicates that Denisovans hunted and consumed large prey, requiring skillful hunting strategies.

This discovery expands the known range of Denisovans and offers an unprecedented glimpse into their daily lives and behaviors.

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