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Ancient DNA discoveries in Siberia

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2026-10-13 23:51 UTC → 2026-10-19 23:01 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Researchers analyzing ancient DNA from bone fragments in Siberia’s Denisova Cave and Altai sites have identified a previously unknown prehistoric bovine lineage, referred to as ~~“yak X”.~~ ‘yak X’. This mitochondrial lineage is closely related to modern yaks but represents a deeply divergent group that survived in the region for approximately 200,000 years. The discovery, made through advanced genetic sequencing of small or damaged bone fragments, also confirmed the presence of aurochs, bison, and various other yak groups. A study published in the journal Current Biology detailed the genetic sequencing of 20 specimens, including 14 from Denisova Cave in the Altai Mountains and six from other regional sites. Because the bone fragments were too small to be identified by shape, scientists relied on DNA to confirm the distinct mammal. Data indicates that ‘yak X’ diverged from the lineage of modern yaks approximately 400,000 years ago and lived alongside woolly mammoths. The oldest samples date back 250,000 to 200,000 years, while the youngest specimens date to roughly 27,000 years ago, marking the end of the species’ survival.

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