Dinner at the Denisovans: Unraveling the Mysterious Diet of Our Ancient Cousins

As we delve into the fascinating world of ancient humans, a new discovery has shed light on the dietary habits of the Denisovans, a mysterious species that coexisted with our own ancestors. The findings, published in the journal Nature, reveal that these ancient humans dined on a variety of animals, including blue sheep, in the Tibetan Plateau.

The story begins with the discovery of a Denisovan rib, dated between 48,000 and 32,000 years ago, in the Baishiya Karst Cave on the Tibetan Plateau. This remarkable find is the second Denisovan bone to be identified in the cave, which has been occupied by humans for at least 120,000 years. The team of researchers, led by Frido Welker from the University of Copenhagen, analyzed over 2,500 bones extracted from the cave, using a technique called “zooarchaeology by mass spectrometry” to identify the species.

The blue sheep, a species of goat-like animal with distinctive horns, was found to be the dominant animal in the cave, along with remains of wild yaks, horses, and woolly rhinoceroses. The team also identified bones of carnivores, such as hyenas, and small animals like marmots and birds. The presence of cut marks on small animal bones suggests that the Denisovans were skilled hunters, and the absence of forest vegetation in the area implies that the cave was a grassy slope, suitable for the blue sheep.

The Denisovans’ diet was likely a mix of big game and smaller animals, with a preference for the former when available. The team detected evidence of pelt processing, which may have been used to make clothing to combat the harsh climate. The presence of marrow extraction marks on long bones from big animals, such as sheep, aurochs, and horses, suggests that the Denisovans valued this nutritious food source.

The study also highlights the adaptability of the Denisovans, who were able to thrive in extreme environments, including high altitudes and low oxygen levels. Their ability to survive for so long is a testament to their resilience and resourcefulness.

While the Denisovans eventually went extinct, the blue sheep, which is found in the Himalayas, continues to thrive. The study provides valuable insights into the lives of our ancient cousins, offering a glimpse into their daily struggles and triumphs. As we continue to unravel the mysteries of our shared human history, this discovery reminds us of the importance of understanding the complexities of our ancestors’ diets and lifestyles.

Key Takeaways:

• The Denisovans’ diet consisted of a variety of animals, including blue sheep, wild yaks, and horses.
• The blue sheep was the dominant animal in the Baishiya Karst Cave, suggesting that the Denisovans may have targeted this species for food.
• The Denisovans were skilled hunters, using techniques like marrow extraction to obtain nutritious food.
• The team detected evidence of pelt processing, which may have been used to make clothing.
• The Denisovans were highly adaptable, able to thrive in extreme environments.
• The blue sheep, which is found in the Himalayas, continues to thrive, while the Denisovans eventually went extinct.

Why is this important?

• Understanding the diet and lifestyle of our ancient cousins can provide valuable insights into their daily struggles and triumphs.
• The study highlights the importance of adaptability and resourcefulness in the face of challenging environments.
• The discovery of Denisovan remains in the Baishiya Karst Cave provides a unique window into the lives of our ancient ancestors.

Historical Context:

The Denisovans are an extinct species of human that is known to have interbred with both Neanderthals and modern humans. They are believed to have lived in Asia and are thought to have gone extinct around 40,000 to 50,000 years ago. The Denisovans are known for their unique genetic makeup, which has been found in the DNA of present-day humans. The discovery of Denisovan remains in the Baishiya Karst Cave in the Tibetan Plateau is significant because it provides a unique window into the lives of our ancient ancestors.

The Tibetan Plateau has been occupied by humans for at least 120,000 years, and the Baishiya Karst Cave is one of the most important archaeological sites in the region. The cave has yielded a wealth of information about the lives of ancient humans, including their diet, technology, and culture.

The study of the Denisovans’ diet is important because it provides insights into their lifestyle and how they adapted to their environment. The discovery of a variety of animal remains in the cave, including blue sheep, wild yaks, and horses, suggests that the Denisovans were skilled hunters who were able to thrive in a challenging environment.

Summary in Bullet Points:

• The Denisovans’ diet consisted of a variety of animals, including blue sheep, wild yaks, and horses.
• The blue sheep was the dominant animal in the Baishiya Karst Cave, suggesting that the Denisovans may have targeted this species for food.
• The Denisovans were skilled hunters, using techniques like marrow extraction to obtain nutritious food.
• The team detected evidence of pelt processing, which may have been used to make clothing.
• The Denisovans were highly adaptable, able to thrive in extreme environments.
• The blue sheep, which is found in the Himalayas, continues to thrive, while the Denisovans eventually went extinct.
• Understanding the diet and lifestyle of our ancient cousins can provide valuable insights into their daily struggles and triumphs.
• The study highlights the importance of adaptability and resourcefulness in the face of challenging environments.
• The discovery of Denisovan remains in the Baishiya Karst Cave provides a unique window into the lives of our ancient ancestors.