Ancient Human Relatives, Denisovans, May Have Looked Like This, New Study Reveals

Researchers have reconstructed the potential appearance of Denisovans, an extinct human species that inhabited Asia between approximately 300,000 and 40,000 years ago. The findings are based on the analysis of rare fossil fragments, primarily skull and jaw elements discovered in China. These fossils, unearthed at the Xujiayao archaeological site between 1976 and 1979, have now been conclusively identified as Denisovan.

The Denisovans are known for their scarcity of fossil evidence. Unlike Neanderthals, for whom numerous remains exist, Denisovan fossils are exceptionally rare. The species was first identified from a few finger bones and teeth found in Denisova Cave in Siberia in 2008. Since then, a limited number of other scattered fossils across Asia have been identified as Denisovan.

In the recent study, published in the journal Nature, scientists extracted and analyzed ancient proteins from the Xujiayao bones. This protein analysis, particularly variations in the collagen protein, provided strong evidence for the fossils' affiliation with the Denisovan lineage. Researchers compared these protein sequences with those from Neanderthals and modern humans, identifying specific markers unique to Denisovans.

With the Denisovan identity of the fossils confirmed, researchers created 3D computer models of the reconstructed skull and jaw. These digital models were then compared to fossil remains of other ancient human species. The reconstructions suggest that Denisovans had a distinct facial structure, differing from Neanderthals and modern humans. Their skulls were relatively low and broad with sides that ran almost straight back. They also exhibited large, jutting brow ridges and broad cheekbones. The facial features were described as somewhat flattened, with a jaw and face that projected minimally.

This new identification of Denisovan remains in northern China supports the theory that the species was more widespread across Asia than previously assumed. Previously, Denisovan fossils were primarily associated with Siberia and the Tibetan mountains. The Xujiayao remains indicate the species ranged further, potentially across diverse East Asian environments.

Previous discoveries, such as Denisovan leg bones recovered from the Penghu Channel between Taiwan and mainland China, suggested individuals stood between approximately 5 feet 11 inches and 6 feet 3 inches tall. These individuals would have been notably taller than many of their contemporary ancient human relatives and some modern people.

The research also builds upon existing knowledge of Denisovan genetics. DNA analysis has revealed that Denisovans interbred with modern humans. Today, approximately 5% of the DNA in some Australasian populations, particularly those from Papua New Guinea, is Denisovan. Genomes from Oceania and East Asia have shown distinct Denisovan ancestry, suggesting at least two separate instances of interbreeding between 200,000 and 50,000 years ago.