New human ancestor discovered in Ethiopia
Fossils reveal new human ancestor from 2.8-2.6M years ago in Ethiopia.
Why it matters
- Reveals a new species in the human family tree.
- Shows multiple hominin species coexisted in eastern Africa around 2.5-3 million years ago.
By the numbers
- Fossils dated between 2.8 and 2.6 million years ago.
- At least four hominin lineages coexisted in eastern Africa during that period.
The big picture
- Human evolution is complex, with multiple branches (more like a bush than a tree).
- Challenges the linear view of human evolution.
What they're saying
- Paleontology is a young field, and each discovery adds to the story of human evolution.
Caveats
- More fossils needed to name the new species.
- Findings based on teeth and comparisons with other fossils.
What’s next
- Further research on tooth enamel to understand diet.
- Investigating how multiple hominin species coexisted.