Study Finds Neanderthal Children Grew Faster Than Modern Humans

A study published in Current Biology reports that Neanderthal children grew at a faster pace compared to modern human children. The research examined remains from northern Israel. These findings were attributed to potential adaptations to their environment.

The remains, known as Amud 7, date to between approximately 51,000 and 56,000 years ago. They represent the most complete skeleton of a Neanderthal infant discovered to date. The study analyzed these fossils to determine growth rates.

noted that the faster development might have helped Neanderthals adjust to their surroundings. The study did not specify further details on the environmental conditions. Additional context includes a separate discovery of a Neanderthal fingerprint on a 43,000-year-old pebble in Spain, mentioned in related illustrations.

The research provides insights into Neanderthal physiology based on skeletal evidence. It compares developmental timelines with those of modern humans. No further actions or follow-up studies were detailed in the report.