Neanderthals and Modern Humans: Resource Competition Evidence
Author Information
Author(s): Virginie Fabre, Silvana Condemi, Anna Degioanni, Estelle Herrscher
Primary Institution: Laboratoire d'Anthropologie Bioculturelle, UMR 6578 CNRS/Université de la Méditerranée
Hypothesis
Resource competition, analyzed through isotopic modeling, was strong between Neanderthals and modern humans.
Conclusion
The study suggests that resource competition may have occurred between Neanderthals and modern humans during the late Pleistocene.
Supporting Evidence
- Isotopic analyses showed similar dietary patterns for Neanderthals and modern humans.
- Resource competition may have contributed to the Neanderthal extinction.
- The study compiled isotopic data from 945 specimens across 51 archaeological sites.
Takeaway
This study looked at how Neanderthals and modern humans might have competed for food. It found that they likely ate similar things, which could have led to competition.
Methodology
The study used isotopic data from 51 archaeological sites and applied mixing models to analyze dietary strategies.
Potential Biases
Assumptions were made that all hominids consumed the same types of resources, which may not be accurate.
Limitations
The isotopic models were based on datasets from living North American animals, which may limit their applicability to European populations.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on Neanderthals and modern humans from various archaeological sites in Europe.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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