"Scientists often estimate population size by looking at genetic diversity. In general, more variation in the genome suggests a larger group. But when Akey’s team applied their tool, IBDmix, they found that much of the apparent diversity in #Neanderthal DNA actually came from genes inherited from modern humans, who had far larger populations. With this new insight, scientists lowered their estimate of the Neanderthal breeding population from about 3,400 individuals to roughly 2,400.Taken together, these findings help explain how Neanderthals disappeared from the fossil and genetic record around 30,000 years ago.
"I don't like to say 'extinction,' because I think Neanderthals were largely absorbed," said Akey. His idea is that Neanderthal populations slowly shrank until the last survivors were folded into modern human communities.…"
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250713032519.htm
Third Foundation
npub176…7zcvr
2025-07-13 21:04:35 UTC
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