Recent research progress and popular issues on Chinese human evolution

Recent research on Chinese human evolution highlights the complexity and diversity of Pleistocene hominin populations. While no confirmed human fossils older than 2 million years have been found, the earliest Homo erectus fossil, the Lantian Gongwangling skull (1.15–1.63 million years old), suggests a significant presence in China during this period. New discoveries, such as crania from Lingjing, Xuchang, and fossils from Huanglong Cave, Zhiren Cave, and Daoxian, reveal a mosaic of morphological traits indicative of both local archaic humans and early modern Homo sapiens (100–80 ka BP). These findings challenge simple linear models of human evolution, suggesting possible genetic mixing between Chinese and European ancient humans. The research also indicates that fully modern morphology likely emerged first in southern China before dispersing northward, with northern populations like those from Xujiayao retaining primitive traits longer.

Wu, X. (2018). Recent research progress and popular issues on Chinese human evolution. Chinese Science Bulletin, 63(21), 2148–2155. https://doi.org/10.1360/n972018-00346