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Neanderthal Nose Study Challenges Cold-Adaptation Beliefs

11/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Researchers studying Altamura Man's nasal cavity found that Neanderthals did not possess specific cold-adaptation features in their noses.
The inner nasal structure of Altamura Man closely resembles that of modern humans, lacking traits once believed to be unique.
The findings address the paradox of Neanderthals' appearance by suggesting they had distinct adaptations for cold climates.
The findings were published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

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Story summary

Researchers studying Altamura Man's nasal cavity found that Neanderthals did not possess specific cold-adaptation features in their noses.
The inner nasal structure of Altamura Man closely resembles that of modern humans, lacking traits once believed to be unique.
The findings address the paradox of Neanderthals' appearance by suggesting they had distinct adaptations for cold climates.
The findings were published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.