Every Homo naledi we know of is female, and the implications are fascinating
Summary
Scientists studied teeth from Homo naledi fossils found in South Africa's Rising Star Cave and discovered all of them were genetically female. This suggests that the remains were likely placed there on purpose, possibly indicating early burial practices by this ancient human relative.Key Facts
- Homo naledi fossils date from about 335,000 to 236,000 years ago.
- Over 20 Homo naledi skeletons were found in the Rising Star Cave system in South Africa.
- Researchers analyzed proteins in dental enamel to determine the sex of the individuals.
- All 23 teeth samples showed only the female version of a protein (AMELX), with no male version (AMELY) detected.
- The chance of finding only females by accident is extremely low (about 0.0000954 percent).
- This points to a deliberate act, such as burying the dead in the cave.
- Even the babies found were all female, making accidental death unlikely.
- The findings may show early evidence of funerary culture among ancient hominins.
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