Neanderthals were a separate species of hominid that lived in Europe and Asia during the Pleistocene era, while Homo sapiens are the only surviving species of the genus Homo. Neanderthals had distinct physical features such as a larger body, pronounced brow ridge, and a robust skeleton.
There is ongoing debate among scientists about whether Neanderthals should be classified as a separate species or a subspecies of Homo sapiens. Some studies suggest that Neanderthals and Homo sapiens interbred and share a common ancestor, which supports the idea of Neanderthals being a subspecies.
Genetic studies have shown that Neanderthals had distinct DNA sequences that differ from those of Homo sapiens. Additionally, analysis of Neanderthal fossils has revealed differences in physical characteristics, such as brain size and structure, that suggest they were a separate species.
Yes, Neanderthals and Homo sapiens lived at the same time during the Pleistocene era. However, they lived in different regions and there is limited evidence of direct interaction between the two species. It is believed that they may have competed for resources and may have even interbred in some cases.
Yes, genetic studies have shown that modern humans of non-African descent have inherited 1-4% of their DNA from Neanderthals. This suggests that interbreeding between Neanderthals and Homo sapiens did occur, further supporting the idea that they were a subspecies of Homo sapiens.