Lecture Notes: Learning Module 14 - Segment 2

Neanderthal Cranial Features

• Primitive Traits: Neanderthals retained some primitive traits like large brow ridges and a sloping forehead.
• Occipital Bone: Distinctive feature called an "occipital bun," a bulge at the back of the cranium.
  • Comparatively, modern humans lack this feature.
  • The occipital bun may relate to brain expansion and size.
  • Provides insight into vertical and posterior cranial expansion.
• Comparison to Other Hominids:
  • Homo erectus had a flat, triangular cranium; early Homo and Australopithecines had even flatter craniums.
  • Neanderthal cranium is more rounded at the bottom, similar to humans.

Cranial Shape and Size

• Prognathism: Neanderthals exhibited prognathism due to large nasal cavities and sinuses.
• Cranium Shape: Ovular or football-shaped, longer than modern human craniums.
  • Modern humans have a more globular cranium shape with the face tucked under the braincase.

Neanderthal Intelligence and Culture

• Large brain size suggests intelligence, yet lack evidence of creative expressions like art.
• Had sophisticated tools similar to modern humans.

Physical Appearance and Adaptations

• Cold Weather Adaptations:
  • Stocky, robust physique with short limbs, aiding in heat retention.
  • Large barrel chest for minimizing heat loss.
  • Large sinus cavities to warm and moisturize cold air, preventing heat and moisture loss.
• Physical Differences:
  • Likely had larger noses and significant prognathism.
  • Question remains whether modern humans would perceive Neanderthals as non-human.

Growth and Development Patterns

• Extensive Neanderthal fossil collections allow for detailed study of development patterns.
• Neanderthal children grew faster than modern humans up to age 5, then growth rates became similar.
• Delayed sexual maturation similar to modern humans suggests importance of learned behavior.
  • Long juvenile dependency may have fostered social and cultural learning.

Paleopathological Insights

• Study of ancient diseases and injuries provides insights into Neanderthal lifestyle.
• La Chapelle Neanderthal Old Man:
  • Suffered from various pathological conditions, including pelvic deformation, arthritis, and tooth loss.
  • Analysis shows evidence of rigorous lifestyle and potential societal care due to his age and condition.

Conclusions

• Neanderthals showed unique adaptations and shared some developmental traits with modern humans.
• Ongoing studies continue to reveal their complex lifestyles and adaptations to harsh environments.