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Neanderthal Extinction Linked to Genetic Diversity Drop

3/3/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A groundbreaking study uncovers that Neanderthals may have faced extinction due to a drastic drop in genetic diversity around 110,000 years ago. By examining fossilized inner ear structures, researchers identified a genetic bottleneck that left these ancient humans susceptible to diseases and environmental shifts, reshaping our understanding of their survival struggles.

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Story summary

A groundbreaking study uncovers that Neanderthals may have faced extinction due to a drastic drop in genetic diversity around 110,000 years ago. By examining fossilized inner ear structures, researchers identified a genetic bottleneck that left these ancient humans susceptible to diseases and environmental shifts, reshaping our understanding of their survival struggles.