A recent discovery in Neumark-Nord 2, Germany, reveals evidence suggesting Neanderthals, as early as 125,000 years ago, meticulously processed animal bones to extract high-energy fats. Analysis of 118,774 bone fragments, along with thousands of stone tools and other artifacts, indicates a sophisticated and organized approach to butchery, potentially far more advanced than previously thought. This find challenges existing assumptions about Neanderthal dietary practices and cognitive abilities.
The discovery at the Neumark-Nord 2 site in eastern Germany, dating back to the Middle Pleistocene, presents a compelling case for Neanderthal sophistication. Excavations unearthed an astounding 118,774 fragments of mammal bones, overwhelmingly from high-fat portions of the carcass. Remarkably, these bones show a high degree of fragmentation, with a significant portion (approximately 40%) exhibiting signs of intentional cutting and hammering. This meticulous approach suggests a deliberate strategy for extracting valuable nutrients, specifically lipids.
This isn't just about scavenging; the sheer volume of fragmented bones, the concentration of high-fat-content bone fragments, and the presence of tools crafted for this specific purpose strongly suggest a systematic process. The researchers' analysis indicates that Neanderthals weren't simply discarding low-value bones; instead, they appear to have targeted and processed specific parts of the carcass known for their fatty content. This includes long bones and skulls, while bones from less-nutritious parts, such as the feet, were significantly less prevalent.
Further supporting this theory, the site also yielded charcoal, heat-treated bones, and heat-treated stones. These findings hint at the potential use of fire to further enhance the extraction process, perhaps by rendering bones or making them easier to break apart. The presence of 16,524 stone tools, crafted from flint, is another crucial piece of the puzzle. Their meticulous design and the significant amount discovered further strengthens the hypothesis that this was not a haphazard process, but rather a well-organized and deliberate method of procuring food.
The sheer quantity and meticulous nature of the bone processing at Neumark-Nord 2 challenge current interpretations of Neanderthal behavior. This early evidence for such advanced bone processing suggests a level of cognitive complexity and planning previously underestimated. It potentially represents a crucial step in understanding the evolutionary trajectory of Neanderthals and their sophisticated relationship with their environment.
The study, published in Science Advances, opens new avenues for research into Neanderthal dietary strategies, cognitive abilities, and social organization. Further analysis of the unearthed artifacts and the surrounding environment will likely provide even more insights into the lives and behaviors of these fascinating hominins. This remarkable discovery underscores the continued importance of archaeological research in revealing the rich tapestry of human history.
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