Neanderthals Survived a Near-Extinction Event

Scientists studying ancient DNA and archaeological finds now believe Neanderthals faced a population bottleneck roughly 75,000 years ago in southwestern France. A harsh ice age forced them into a small area, and later expansion across Europe stemmed from this limited group. This suggests a reduced genetic diversity may have made them vulnerable.

Researchers combined genetic data with discoveries from archaeological sites to reconstruct Neanderthal history. The team found the population did not decline steadily, but experienced sharp increases and decreases. Evidence indicates Neanderthals endured a catastrophic event that could have ended their existence much earlier.

The study does not explain exactly how this bottleneck impacted their eventual disappearance. It remains unclear which specific factors ultimately led to their extinction around 40,000 years ago. Further research continues to explore the complex past of these human relatives.