Remains uncover a hidden human ancestry in the enigmatic Checua region

Discovery of a Previously Unknown Human Lineage in Colombia

In a groundbreaking archaeological find, the remains of a previously unknown human lineage, now referred to as the Checua, have been discovered in the Checua area near Bogotá, Colombia. This significant discovery was reported by Reuters, following research conducted by researchers at the Institute of Genetics of the National University of Colombia.

The Checua remains include partial remains of approximately 30 individuals and a practically intact skull, discovered between the 1980s and early 2000s. The findings and subsequent genome sequencing are significant contributions to understanding the diversity of early human populations in the Americas.

The Checua skull is more elongated than the skulls of other populations found on the plateau around Bogotá, suggesting a unique lineage. When compared to other individuals from different regions of America, the Checua remains found on the Cundiboyacense plateau presented a lineage that had never been reported before.

The exact origins of the Checua are not yet certain, but researchers believe they may have represented an isolated community of nomadic hunter-gatherers. The diets of the early populations were likely influenced by volcanic eruptions, which would damage surface food sources and lead people to consume tubers such as potatoes and other root vegetables.

Despite their isolation, the Checua lineage did not leave genetic traces among modern indigenous peoples. However, the study of the Checua lineage may continue to contribute to a better understanding of the migration patterns and evolution of early human populations in the Americas.

Andrea Casas, a researcher at the Institute of Genetics, stated that perhaps in a few years, they will find other remains that will shed more light on this lineage. José Vicente Rodríguez, professor of Physical Anthropology at the National University of Colombia, also mentioned that the study of the Checua lineage may contribute to a better understanding of the migration patterns and evolution of early human populations in the Americas.

The Checua lineage does not have known descendants. However, the disappearance of the Checua may have been due to climatic conditions, diseases, or lack of food. The research on the Checua remains continues, with the focus on working with the available remains to uncover more about this fascinating and previously unknown human lineage.