Archive · 31 May 2025
Ancient Skeleton Uncovers New Human Lineage in China
Imagine finding the skeleton of a woman who lived over 7,000 years ago!
Scientists studied her DNA and discovered she belonged to a previously unknown group of humans.
This group, called the Basal Asian Xingyi lineage, was like a 'ghost' population because it didn't match any other known groups.
This lineage likely contributed to the ancestry of people in Tibet today.
The discovery helps researchers understand the history of how people moved and mixed in Asia long ago.
A 7,100-year-old skeleton, Xingyi_EN, was discovered in Yunnan, China.
DNA analysis revealed a previously unknown human lineage.
The lineage is named the Basal Asian Xingyi.
This lineage may have contributed to the ancestry of modern Tibetans.
The study involved the analysis of 127 human genomes from southwestern China.
- Who
- Scientists studying the DNA of a skeleton from the Xingyi archaeological site in Yunnan province, China.
- What
- The discovery of a 7,100-year-old skeleton, Xingyi_EN, reveals a new human lineage and provides insights into the ancestry of modern Tibetans.
- When
- Around 7,100 years ago.
- Where
- Yunnan province in southwestern China.
- Why
- To understand the ancient genetic history of East and Southeast Asia and the origins of people who live on the Tibetan Plateau.
- Skeleton Name
- Xingyi_EN
- Age
- 7,100 years old
- Location
- Yunnan province, China
- Lineage
- Basal Asian Xingyi
- Diet
- Hunter-gatherer
- Study Publication
- Science