Genetic Study Uncovers Ancient, Isolated North African Lineage in Central Sahara Dating Back 7,000 Years

A recent genetic study has revealed the existence of a previously isolated North African human lineage in the central Sahara, dating back over 7,000 years during the African Humid Period. The genomic analyses, conducted on individuals from the Takarkori rock shelter in Libya, indicate that their ancestry derives primarily from a North African lineage that diverged from sub-Saharan African populations around the same time as the human lineages that migrated out of Africa approximately 50,000 years ago. This lineage remained isolated, demonstrating a deep genetic continuity in North Africa during the late Ice Age. These individuals share genetic links with 15,000-year-old foragers from Taforalt Cave in Morocco, associated with the Iberomaurusian lithic industry predating the African Humid Period. Despite the Sahara's greening during the African Humid Period, genetic flow between sub-Saharan and North African populations remained limited. The study also found that the Takarkori individuals possess less Neanderthal DNA than people outside Africa, but more than contemporary sub-Saharan Africans, suggesting traces of Neanderthal DNA from gene flow outside of Africa. The research provides insights into human migrations, adaptations, and cultural evolution in the Sahara region.