Brain size has also tripled in the millions of years humans have evolved. With this change, our behavior has become more granular. Small-brained species called hominins could only make simple stone tools. Later, our more intelligent ancestors developed advanced tools and more sophisticated strategies. Our own species, homo sapiens, has made advancements throughout history that have enabled us to make it to the present day.

Scientists have long assumed that increasing brain size is linked to technological and cognitive advances. But new research from South Africa has shown that species with cerebellums may also display complex behaviors. Three preprint articles detailing the findings, to be published later on eLife, were recently shared on biORxiv.

People with small brains are thought to have buried their dead, lit fires, and even made drawings on walls.

Image of homo nalendi

The team, led by paleoanthropologist Lee Berger who worked near Johannesburg, found a human species with a small brain at the fossil site. gay cryfound evidence that it can display a variety of behaviors that previously associated it with large-brained hominins. According to the findings, this species, whose brains are a third of ours,He may have used fire as his stylish resource. And also He even drew symbolic patterns on the walls of caves where they buried their dead. are considered possible.

It should be noted that the Homo nalendi species was added to the homonin species relatively recently. Studies conducted in Johannesburg in 2014 revealed 1500 fossil specimens of this species. With a brain of between 450 and 600 cubic centimeters, this species could walk and have dexterous hands, just like modern humans. Their shoulders were structured to allow them to climb. A study published in 2017 also revealed that Homo nalendi lived between 236,000 and 335,000 years ago.

Researchers think the species entered caves to bury their dead. They add that the evidence found at two sites shows that the bodies had been placed in pits and covered with earth. If so, they were homonymous and perhaps used fire to illuminate the darkness. Reaching the burnt pieces when entering the depths of the caves also reinforces this possibility.

Designs carved into cave walls also include things like squares, triangles, and Xs, suggesting the species may have made drawings. It goes without saying to the team that it’s surprising that such a mean-spirited species can create art.

There are also researchers who say their findings are inconclusive and more studies are needed.

Image of homo nalendi

Of course, it should be noted that this research is not conclusive and that there are researchers who are not convinced. Some experts not involved in the study, such as archaeologist Paul Pettitt of Durham University in England and archaeologist Michael Petraglia of Griffith University in Australia, believe the findings were not used to draw these conclusions. not enough and more research is needed. say.

However, it should be noted that the findings are surprising. If future research supports this, what is known about the relationship between brain size and development may take on a new shape and scientists may need to rethink the question of human evolution.