First kiss dates back 21 million years, say scientists
Summary
Scientists have studied the origins of kissing, suggesting it began over 21 million years ago in the common ancestors of humans and great apes. The study explored kissing across different species and proposed that Neanderthals may have also engaged in this behavior. The findings highlight kissing as a widespread activity in the animal kingdom, although its exact purpose remains unclear.Key Facts
- Scientists suggest kissing evolved more than 21 million years ago.
- This behavior was likely present in the common ancestors of humans and great apes.
- Neanderthals, ancient human relatives, may have also engaged in kissing.
- The study defined kissing as mouth-to-mouth contact with lip or mouth movement, but no food transfer.
- Evidence of similar behavior was found in various animals, including wolves, prairie dogs, polar bears, and albatrosses.
- Researchers constructed an "evolutionary family tree" to track when kissing likely evolved.
- The study was published in the journal "Evolution and Human Behaviour".
- The purpose of kissing in evolutionary terms remains uncertain, but it is a common behavior across species.
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