A groundbreaking study led by Professor Julio Mercader FlorÃn has revealed that early humans, known as Homo erectus, possessed remarkable adaptability in challenging landscapes. Researchers from the University of Calgary, the University of Manitoba, and 17 other institutions used a multidisciplinary approach to examine archaeological and environmental evidence from Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania.
The study shows that Homo erectus repeatedly returned to specific locations within the landscape over thousands of years, indicating strategic use of resources. Advanced modeling techniques were used to reconstruct environmental conditions during the time of Homo erectus, which revealed a surprising ability to thrive under harsh conditions such as extreme climate change and desertification.
Contrary to previous assumptions, the research suggests that early humans did not avoid extreme environments but instead demonstrated remarkable adaptability comparable to that of modern humans. The study’s findings challenge the idea that Homo sapiens have a unique advantage in adapting to diverse environments.
The discovery highlights the intelligence and resourcefulness of Homo erectus, who likely displayed advanced skills such as crafting tools, managing resources, and possibly even building boats to cross oceanic straits. While it is unclear whether they had spoken language, researchers speculate that they may have communicated in other ways to locate vital resources.
The study’s implications for understanding human evolution and adaptability are profound, expanding our view of early human resilience and survival strategies. The interdisciplinary nature of the research underscores the value of collaboration in addressing complex questions about the past.
Source: https://www.earth.com/news/amazing-adaptation-early-humans-thrived-in-extreme-conditions