What's Happening?
Researchers have discovered two 7,000-year-old mummies in the Takarkori rock shelter in the Sahara Desert, revealing a previously unknown North African genetic lineage. The DNA analysis, led by archaeogeneticist Nada Salem from the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, shows that these mummies, female herders from the Green Sahara period, do not share the expected Sub-Saharan genes. Instead, they are closely related to other North African peoples who diverged from Sub-Saharan populations long ago. This discovery provides new insights into the genetic history of early human populations in the Sahara during the African Humid Period.
Why It's Important?
The findings challenge previous assumptions about the genetic makeup of ancient Saharan populations, suggesting limited gene flow between Sub-Saharan and Northern African groups during the African Humid Period. This discovery highlights the complexity of human migration and cultural diffusion in prehistoric Africa. Understanding the genetic lineage of the Takarkori individuals can shed light on the spread of pastoralism and farming practices in the region, which may have occurred through cultural exchange rather than migration. This research contributes to the broader understanding of human evolution and the diversity of ancient populations.
Beyond the Headlines
The study suggests that the Takarkori individuals inherited their genes from a hunter-gatherer group that existed before the domestication of animals and the advent of farming. The diversity of environments in the Green Sahara, ranging from lakes to savannas, likely contributed to the isolation of these populations. This research underscores the importance of environmental factors in shaping human history and highlights the potential for further discoveries in the Sahara that could provide additional insights into ancient human life.
