Ancient DNA reveals a child's burial in Portugal, 28,000 years ago, confirms interbreeding between humans and Neanderthals, offering insights into our complex ancestry and shared cultural practices.
Researchers re-examined a skeleton discovered 27 years ago in Portugal. The remains, exhibiting traits of both modern humans and Neanderthals, suggest the child was a hybrid. Updated dating methods now place the burial around 28,000 years ago, during a period when both populations coexisted in Europe.
The child's bones were stained with red ochre, a pigment, suggesting a ritual burial. The skeleton's mixed features support the idea that interbreeding was not uncommon. This challenges the notion that such unions were rare occurrences.
Traditional radiocarbon dating proved unreliable due to contamination. Scientists used a method analyzing hydroxyproline, an amino acid in bone collagen. This allowed for a more accurate age estimate, confirming the child lived during the human-Neanderthal overlap.
The child's limb proportions resembled Neanderthals, while skull features were similar to modern humans. This blend of characteristics reinforces the interbreeding theory. It suggests hybrid individuals played a role in human evolution during the Ice Age.
The grave also contained clues about cultural practices. The red ochre staining and possible animal skin wrapping suggest symbolic rituals. These practices may have been shared between different human groups.
While deer bones and charcoal were found nearby, dating revealed they predate the burial. Therefore, these items were likely not part of the burial ritual itself. Researchers plan to apply this dating method to other remains.
This discovery highlights the interconnectedness of human origins. The child's burial reflects shared traditions and the blending of different groups. It shapes our understanding of who we are today.