Neanderthals Knew Marine Ecosystems 115,000 Years Ago

An international research team coordinated by the Autonomous University of Barcelona reports Neanderthals in southern Europe consumed mollusks and crustaceans. The team analyzed remains from the Los Aviones cave near Cartagena, Spain.

Researchers examined oxygen isotopes in shellfish shells to determine when they were harvested. They found Neanderthals gathered shellfish year-round, but preferred November to April.

This preference aligns with modern human patterns in Europe and elsewhere. Neanderthals likely targeted shellfish during colder months for higher yield and better flavor. Researchers suggest they avoided summer harvests to prevent health risks from algal toxins or spoilage.

The study challenges previous beliefs that seasonal resource planning was unique to Homo sapiens. However, the analysis currently focuses on one cave site.

Further investigation at other locations is needed to confirm if this pattern was widespread among Neanderthal populations. The team continues to explore Neanderthal cognitive abilities.