Nosing beyond the stone age: deciphering nasal evolution from Neanderthals to modern Man
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Introduction: Neanderthals, our extinct relatives, exhibited distinct nasal morphology compared to Homo sapiens. Objectives: This study explores these differences through a comparative analysis of cranionasal measurements. Material and Methods: Data on Neanderthal nasal features were obtained from existing paleoanthropological literature, focusing on 16 hominid fossils. A parallel sample of 38 modern human CT scans was retrospectively reviewed, with measurements focusing on nasal region. Results: Neanderthals displayed significantly larger nasal cavities with increased basion-nasion and basion-prosthion distances, wider intercanine dimensions, and larger nasal breadth and height compared to modern humans. Choanal width and nasal index did not differ significantly. Conclusions: These findings suggest functional adaptations in Neanderthal nasal morphology, potentially aiding in thermoregulation within cold environments. Further research is needed to fully understand the evolutionary significance of these adaptations.
Authors: Sousa,Francisco Alves de, Dias,Joana Ida, Carvalho,Rita Teixeira, Alves,Clara Serdoura, Pinto,Ana Nóbrega, Santos,Mariline, Meireles,Luís
Institution: Unidade Local de Saúde de Santo António EPE
Language: English
Subfield: Anthropology
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7021373895
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