Neanderthals, Denisovans, modern humans ‘intermingled’ in Iran, claims research

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BY NERGIS FIRTINA

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A new study reveals that Neanderthals, Denisovans, and modern humans could have intermingled in the Caspian region.

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Although it is unclear when these prehistoric encounters took place, the presence of old genes in the present human genome indicates that Homo sapiens once interbred with other hominin species.

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The researchers used computer modeling to determine the two most plausible dispersal pathways taken by Neanderthals.

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Dr. Jenna Crowe-Riddell

One of these routes would have required our prehistoric ancestors to go across Siberia.

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The other, though, traveled via the warm and inviting Southern Caspian Corridor (SSC).

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The authors of the study note that while ancient climate data may suggest that different species may have coexisted in northern Iran.

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Stone tools and other cultural items are the sole indications of past human habitation of the SCC that we now have.

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