A fossilized lower jawbone recovered from the seafloor near Taiwan has been identified as belonging to a Denisovan, an archaic human species closely related to Neanderthals. This discovery significantly extends the known geographic range of Denisovans, suggesting they inhabited regions far beyond previous estimates.

The mandible, featuring five large teeth, was dredged from the Penghu Channel's seabed during commercial fishing operations. Initially acquired by a local collector, it was later donated to Taiwan's National Museum of Natural Science. While DNA extraction was unsuccessful, scientists employed protein analysis on the dental enamel. This method revealed protein variants unique to Denisovans, confirming the specimen's identity. Additionally, protein fragments associated with the Y-chromosome indicated the individual was male.

Determining the fossil's age proved challenging due to the inability to use traditional dating methods. However, based on associated animal fossils, researchers estimate the jawbone dates between 10,000 to 70,000 years ago or possibly 130,000 to 190,000 years ago. If the younger estimate holds, this could represent the most recent Denisovan fossil discovered to date.

Prior to this find, confirmed Denisovan fossils were limited to Siberia's Denisova Cave and China's Baishiya Karst Cave. A molar from Laos' Cobra Cave is also believed to be Denisovan. The Taiwanese mandible's discovery suggests Denisovans occupied a vast expanse of eastern Eurasia, adapting to diverse environments ranging from Siberian mountains to tropical regions.

Denisovans, who diverged from Neanderthals approximately 400,000 years ago, interbred with Homo sapiens. Their genetic legacy persists in modern human populations, particularly among East and Southeast Asians. This fossil adds valuable insight into Denisovan morphology and their ecological adaptability.

The Taiwanese jawbone discovery underscores the Denisovans' extensive range and adaptability. As researchers continue to uncover such findings, our understanding of human evolution and the interactions between archaic and modern humans deepens.