A groundbreaking discovery has been made off the coast of Indonesia, where researchers have uncovered fossils of Homo erectus, an ancient human ancestor. The bones, which date back approximately 140,000 years, were found in the Madura Strait and provide new insights into the lives of our extinct human relatives.
The fossils were discovered as part of a construction project that excavated sediment from the seabed near Surabaya. Lead researcher Harold Berghuis spent weeks searching for fossils on his hands and knees and finally spotted one, which reminded him of a famous Dutch Neanderthal fossil.
The discovery sheds light on an unknown Homo erectus population in Southeast Asia that may have interacted with more modern humans. Analysis of the fossils suggests that these hominins were skilled hunters, taking down turtles, large game, and even cow-like bovids. This hunting strategy is associated with more modern humans on the Asian mainland.
The discovery also provides a unique glimpse into the ecosystem of Southeast Asia during the last ice age. Fossils found along with the Homo erectus remains include those of Komodo dragons, giant lizards that could have been the top predators in the Sundaland plains.
This finding highlights the complexity and diversity of human evolution in Southeast Asia. The region’s unique geography and climate may have led to the development of distinct cultural practices and adaptations among ancient humans.
Source: https://www.livescience.com/archaeology/140-000-year-old-homo-erectus-bones-discovered-on-drowned-land-in-indonesia