Fossils in Greece Challenge African Origin of Hominids

A new analysis of fossils from Nikiti, Chalkidiki, suggests that the ancestors of hominids may have originated in Europe, challenging the dominant theory of African origin.

The fossils, 8-9 million years old, were initially attributed to Ouranopithecus. However, a study by the University of Toronto argues that they belong to an unknown species, possibly a precursor to hominids.

Charles Darwin had left open the possibility of European origin, given the findings of great apes in Europe. The new study reinforces this possibility.

David Begun notes that SE Europe hosted ancestors of animals now considered African. The debate about the origin of man is reignited.

Source: Ta Nea