Ancient Denisovans' Faces Reconstructed From Rare Fossil Fragments

Researchers have reconstructed the likely appearance of Denisovans, an extinct human species that inhabited Asia between approximately 300,000 and 40,000 years ago, based on analyses of rare fossil fragments. These findings, published in the journal Nature, shed light on the physical traits of these ancient relatives.

Denisovans remain largely enigmatic due to the scarcity of discovered fossils. The species was initially identified in 2008 from a few bone fragments and teeth found in Siberia. Since then, scattered remains, including jawbones and skulls, have been identified across Asia. However, a definitive understanding of their physical form has been challenging.

The recent study focused on bones unearthed at the Xujiayao archaeological site in northern China between 1976 and 1979. Scientists extracted and analyzed ancient proteins from these fossils. By comparing specific protein variations, particularly a unique collagen protein variant, with those of Neanderthals and modern humans, the researchers confirmed the fossils' affiliation with the Denisovan lineage.

With the identification confirmed, the team created 3D computer models of the reconstructed skull and jaw. These models revealed that Denisovans possessed a unique combination of features. Their skulls were broad and relatively low, with sides that extended nearly straight back. They had prominent brow ridges above their eyes and relatively broad cheekbones. Unlike some other hominins, Denisovans' facial features were somewhat flattened, with a jaw and face that projected only slightly forward.

The reconstructed features show similarities to Neanderthals in certain aspects, such as skull and inner ear structures, but also display distinct characteristics. For instance, the study noted a small hollow at the back of the Denisovan skull, a feature shared with Neanderthals.

This research expands the understanding of Denisovan geographic distribution. The identification of these northern Chinese remains suggests that Denisovans inhabited a wider range across Asia than previously assumed, extending beyond the Siberian caves and Tibetan mountains with which they are often associated. The findings also align with other unidentified remains found across East Asia, potentially indicating a broader Denisovan presence.

Previous discoveries have also contributed to the picture of Denisovan physicality. Leg bones recovered from the Penghu Channel between Taiwan and mainland China, identified as Denisovan, suggest individuals stood between approximately five feet 11 inches and six feet three inches tall, and weighed between 183 and 201 pounds. These dimensions indicate that these Denisovans were taller than many contemporary ancient humans and even many modern individuals.

Genetic evidence has further highlighted the widespread nature of Denisovans and their interactions with other hominin groups. DNA analysis has revealed Denisovan ancestry in modern human populations across Asia, suggesting at least two separate interbreeding events between Denisovans and ancestors of modern humans occurring between 200,000 and 50,000 years ago. Notably, populations in Oceania, such as those in Papua New Guinea, carry a higher percentage of Denisovan DNA compared to other groups.