In a recent study published in the journal Science Advances , a group of researchers in Spain investigated the caregiving practices of Neanderthals by examining a Neanderthal child with both Down syndrome (a genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra chromosome 21) and congenital ear pathology (an ear disorder present at birth that affects hearing or balance) highlighting the group's role in providing extended care. Caregiving for sick or injured Neanderthals has long been recognized, and there is increasing interest in its implications. Some researchers suggest caregiving arose from a complex social context with adaptive value.
Further research is needed to understand the extent and nature of caregiving behaviors and their implications for social dynamics among Neanderthals. Original fossil and 3D model of CN-46700. ( A to D ) original fossil.
( E to H ) 3D model. [(A) and (E)] anterior view. [(B) and (F)] Lateral view.
[(C) and (G)] Posterior view. [(D) and (H)] Medial view. Scale bar, 5 mm.
The taxonomic analysis utilized discriminant function analysis with data on variables Sagittal Labyrinthine Index (SLI), Anterior Semicircular Canal Radius (ASC-R), Lateral Semicircular Canal Radius (LSC-R), and Posterior Semicircular Canal Radius (PSC-R) from 29 Neanderthals, 23 fossil Homo sapiens ( H. sapiens ), and 26 modern humans. Cochlear variables, such as the number of turns (NT) and %L3 viz.
, the proportional length of the third cochlear turn, were taken from 10 Spani.
