Unveiling Anadoluvius turkae: Reshaping Our Understanding of Humanoid Origins
The identification of a human-like monkey species in Çankırı is revolutionizing our comprehension of the genesis of humanoid species.
In a groundbreaking revelation, a captivating chapter of human evolution has been unveiled through the discovery of a human-like monkey species known as Anadoluvius turkae in Çankırı, Turkey. This remarkable find is overturning traditional perspectives on the origins of humanoid species, shedding light on a complex narrative that challenges preconceived notions. This significant breakthrough comes after eight years of dedicated research at the Çorakyerler Vertebrate Fossil Site, situated in the Çankırı region.
In a fascinating exploration of Çorakyerler, researchers unearthed a treasure trove of monkey bones that defied expectations. These bones belonged to a distinct species, a tailless monkey-like creature exhibiting humanoid traits, subsequently named Anadoluvius turkae. This astonishing find, estimated to have lived around 8.7 million years ago, provides compelling evidence that tailless and bipedal Anadoluvius species potentially originated in Europe before spreading to Africa, weaving a unique tale within the tapestry of humanoid evolution.
The most recent research1 on Anadoluvius turkae has been presented in the esteemed journal Communications Biology. Collaboratively authored by Professor David Begun from the University of Toronto and Professor Ayla Sevim Erol from Ankara University, this research delivers a fresh perspective that challenges conventional beliefs about humanoid species' beginnings.
The article presents compelling information that upends long-standing theories regarding the genesis of humanoid species. The discovery of the Anadoluvius turkae fossil, believed to be approximately 8.7 million years old, stands as a testament to the idea that European regions played a pivotal role in the emergence of humanoid species before their migration to Africa. This realization challenges the notion that African primates and the earliest humanoid species solely originated in Africa, suggesting a more intricate journey of evolution.
Radiation analysis of the Anadoluvius turkae fossil offers insights into the evolutionary journey of hominins in Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean. Professor David Begun's findings suggest that hominins did not solely evolve in Western and Central Europe, but likely spent over 5 million years evolving in these regions before migrating to the Eastern Mediterranean and eventually dispersing to Africa. The study showcases the richness and complexity of Europe's role in the early stages of humanoid evolution.
Professor Ayla Sevim Erol's insights further illuminate the significance of the Anadoluvius turkae discovery. Through examination of jaw and teeth, it is inferred that Anadoluvius inhabited relatively open environments akin to the habitats associated with early humans in Africa. The fossil's characteristics provide glimpses into the dietary preferences and surroundings of this remarkable species.
The comprehensive study also brings to light the potential connection between Anadoluvius turkae and other species, such as Ouranopithecus found in Greece and Graecopithecus found in Bulgaria. These species collectively compose a group that closely aligns with the anatomy and ecological traits of the oldest hominins or humanoid species known to us.
The discovery of Anadoluvius turkae in Çankırı, Turkey, emerges as a transformative episode in the ongoing saga of human evolution. By challenging conventional theories and uncovering the complex role of Europe in humanoid origins, this finding reshapes our understanding of our evolutionary history. As researchers continue to unearth more fossils and explore new dimensions of our past, the story of Anadoluvius turkae remains an enduring testament to the intricate journey of humanoid species across time and continents.
Sevim-Erol, A., Begun, D.R., Sözer, Ç.S. et al. A new ape from Türkiye and the radiation of late Miocene hominines. Commun Biol 6, 842 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s42003-023-05210-5