Researchers in northeastern Ethiopia have made a groundbreaking discovery of previously unknown human remains dating back 2.8-2.6 million years ago. The fossils, which belong to the genus Australopithecus, are distinct from other known species and are believed to represent a new member of the human family. The discovery was published in Nature on August 13.
The research team, led by Arizona State University investigators, has yet to name the new species due to the need for more fossils from other parts of the body. However, comparisons with similar teeth found at the Ledi-Geraru site and other hominin fossils suggest that the newly identified member of Australopithecus is unique enough to warrant classification as a new species.
Source: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/new-human-ancestor-identified-from-fossil-teeth