Fossilized teeth in Ethiopia reveal two human ancestors coexisted 2.6 million years ago, including a potentially unknown species

A groundbreaking discovery in Ethiopia's Afar Region has unveiled evidence that multiple human ancestor species coexisted approximately 2.6 to 2.8 million years ago, challenging traditional views of human evolution. The findings, published in the journal Nature, suggest a more complex and branching evolutionary history than previously understood.

The excavation, part of the Ledi-Geraru Research Project, unearthed 13 fossilized teeth, 10 attributed to a previously unidentified species of Australopithecus and 3 to early members of the Homo genus.

These discoveries indicate that at least five hominin species may have coexisted in eastern Africa during this period, including Homo, Australopithecus, and Paranthropus.


The Australopithecus teeth found at the LD 750 and LD 760 sites exhibit distinct morphological features not seen in known species such as A. afarensis or A. garhi, suggesting the presence of a previously unknown lineage. This challenges the long-held belief that Australopithecus species had disappeared before the emergence of Homo.

The three Homo teeth, dated between 2.78 and 2.59 million years ago, are consistent with early members of the Homo genus, such as Homo habilis. This supports the notion that Homo species were present in the region during the same timeframe as Australopithecus.

The Afar Region's geological activity, including tectonic rifting and volcanic ash deposits, has preserved these fossils exceptionally well, allowing for precise dating and detailed morphological analysis.

This discovery underscores the complexity of human evolution, highlighting that multiple hominin species may have coexisted and interacted in overlapping environments. The findings contribute to a more nuanced understanding of our evolutionary history, moving beyond the simplistic linear models previously proposed.

Further research and additional fossil discoveries are needed to fully comprehend the relationships and interactions among these ancient human ancestors.