Cannibalism among early humans extended to adults, new findings suggest

Recent archaeological discoveries in Spain's Gran Dolina site have provided compelling evidence that Homo antecessor, an early human relative in Europe, engaged in cannibalism that extended to adults, not just children as previously suggested.

Researchers from the Catalan Institute of Human Paleoecology and Social Evolution (IPHES) announced the discovery of 24 new Homo antecessor fossils. Among these were the remains of six adults bearing cut marks consistent with cannibalistic practices. This finding significantly broadens the understanding of cannibalism within this species, moving beyond earlier evidence that primarily focused on younger individuals.

"The association of stone tools, animal remains, and Homo antecessor bones allows us to reconstruct a living space from 850,000 years ago in exceptional detail," stated Andreu Ollé, co-director of the project. Previous research, including a 2010 study led by Palmira Saladié, had proposed that Homo antecessor cannibalized its young, citing cut marks on children's bones similar to those found on animal remains. However, the interpretation of these earlier findings remained debated, with some questioning if alternative explanations, such as burial customs, could account for the evidence.

Further analysis in 2012 by Saladié and colleagues supported the cannibalism theory, drawing parallels to chimpanzee behavior where infanticide can occur for territorial defense. The most convincing evidence came last year with the identification of precise cut marks and human bite marks on the bones of a Homo antecessor infant, aged two to five years. Saladié described this as "the most reliable evidence that the bodies found at the site were indeed consumed."

The latest findings, revealing cannibalism among adults, are considered a "turning point" for the Gran Dolina site. The presence of adult remains processed in this manner suggests a more widespread practice than previously understood. Alongside the human fossils, the excavations have unearthed numerous stone tools and animal remains, including those of hyenas, beavers, and horses, offering a detailed glimpse into the lives of these ancient hominins. Homo antecessor remains one of the least understood of our early human relatives in Europe, and these new discoveries are crucial for reconstructing their anatomy and lifestyle.