Question

______________ was thought to have a hybrid origin; DNA analysis found that they had ________ and _______ which suggests that _______; the evidence points to __________

Answer 1

DNA analysis of the Denisovans, an ancient human species, suggests they had mitochondrial and genomic DNA indicative of a common ancestor with Neanderthals, with evidence of interbreeding among human species.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Denisovans, a group of archaic humans, were initially believed to have a hybrid origin based on DNA analysis. This analysis revealed distinct mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and nuclear genomic DNA, indicating that Denisovans had a different mtDNA from modern humans and Neanderthals and that they shared a common ancestor with Neanderthals. Furthermore, Denisovan DNA has been identified in some modern human populations, suggesting that interbreeding occurred among Denisovans, Neanderthals, and modern humans.

One remarkable discovery was that of Denisova 11, or 'Denny,' a first-generation hybrid with a Denisovan father and a Neanderthal mother. This evidence, along with genetic research in populations around the world, hints at the complex interplay and interbreeding among multiple human species in prehistoric times, implying a rich evolutionary tapestry beyond the traditional Out of Africa theory. Additionally, the idea of ghost populations contributes to this understanding, proposing the presence of unknown archaic hominins in the genetic makeup of some modern populations.