Yes, Denisovans were active during the same general period as Neanderthals but in different geographical regions. Here’s a timeline and context for Denisovans:
Timeline of Denisovans
1. Emergence:
• Denisovans likely diverged from their common ancestor with Neanderthals around 400,000–600,000 years ago. This places their origins at a similar time to Neanderthals.
• Both species evolved from populations of Homo heidelbergensis or a similar archaic human species.
2. Peak Period:
• Denisovans are believed to have been active from at least 200,000 years ago and possibly earlier.
• They coexisted with Neanderthals and Homo sapiens for tens of thousands of years.
3. Extinction:
• Denisovans likely disappeared as a distinct population around 40,000–50,000 years ago, coinciding with the arrival of Homo sapiens in their territories and possibly climate changes.
Overlap with Neanderthals
• Denisovans and Neanderthals coexisted for a significant period (200,000–40,000 years ago).
• Evidence suggests they interbred, as modern human populations carry genetic material from both groups:
• Neanderthal DNA is found in non-African populations (1–2%).
• Denisovan DNA is found primarily in Melanesians, Aboriginal Australians, and some Asian populations, where it accounts for up to 4–6% of the genome.
Geographical Range
• Denisovans were primarily located in Asia, whereas Neanderthals inhabited Europe and parts of western Asia. However, their ranges likely overlapped in some regions, such as central and northern Asia.
Discovery and Evidence
• The first evidence of Denisovans was discovered in 2010 at the Denisova Cave in Siberia, from a fragment of a finger bone.
• Genetic analysis revealed that they were a distinct group, related to both Neanderthals and modern humans.
• Additional fossil evidence (e.g., a jawbone in Tibet) and genetic studies suggest a broad range across Asia.
Interbreeding and Legacy
• Homo sapiens interbred with Denisovans, contributing to the modern human gene pool. Denisovan genes are particularly associated with adaptations to:
• High-altitude living (e.g., the EPAS1 gene in modern Tibetans).
• Immune system diversity.
Conclusion
Denisovans were active during the same period as Neanderthals (roughly 400,000–40,000 years ago) but occupied different regions. They interacted and interbred with Neanderthals and Homo sapiens, leaving a genetic legacy that continues in some modern human populations.
Would you like to explore their interactions, adaptations, or genetic contributions further?
