Anthropologists have presented evidence of a previously unknown species of ancient people called Homo Juluensis, who lived in modern Northern China from 200 to 160 thousand years ago. The findings were based on research conducted at the archaeological complex of Suzzyaiao, located on the border of the provinces of Shanxi and Habei. The discovery of unique bone remains and cultural artifacts has provided insights into the lives of these early humans and their evolutionary history.
One of the most striking features of Homo Juluensis was the size of their cranial boxes, which ranged from 1700 to 1800 cubic centimeters. This exceeded the cranial capacity of modern humans (1350 cubic centimeters) and Neanderthals (1450 cubic centimeters). Anthropologists Christopher Bay and Suitsze noted that the large skull size does not necessarily indicate higher intelligence, but it may reflect evolutionary adaptations to challenging environments.
Researchers also observed similarities between the dental structure of Homo Juluensis and the Denisovans discovered in Siberia in 2008. The resemblance in tooth morphology, particularly in the chewing surface, suggests a possible genetic relationship between the two groups. Additionally, Homo Juluensis exhibited an unusual inner ear structure previously associated with Neanderthals, hinting at a shared evolutionary history with these ancient human relatives.
According to anthropologists, the name “homo denisova” likely refers to a broader population rather than a specific biological form. The status of Denisovans has been primarily determined through genetic data rather than traditional paleontological classification, adding complexity to their classification.
The excavation at Suzzyaoo revealed the remains of 16 Homo Juluensis individuals and thousands of tools, shedding light on their daily lives. These ancient hunters were skilled at hunting wild horses and efficiently utilized resources such as meat, bone marrow, and animal skins for clothing. Their organizational structure consisted of small, mobile groups that relied on adaptive strategies for survival in harsh environments.
As Homo sapiens began to migrate to China around 120 thousand years ago, the Homo Juluensis populations gradually diminished due to competition for limited resources. The arrival of modern humans signaled the decline of these ancient groups, highlighting the dynamic interactions between different hominid species in prehistoric China.