The DNA analysis of the new species has revealed the presence of the genetic makeup from Denisovans or Denisova hominins, and Homo sapiens. It is possible that the three species have interbred at some point in time. However, the most amusing discovery regarding the species is the vestigial tail that they had. Dr. Bennett has explained the possibility of the vestigial tail having less function or perhaps even develop new minor ones.
There are still examples of vestigiality among Modern humans. The wisdom teeth, appendix, and coccyx or tailbone are among these vestigial traits.
Like other mammals, humans also have a tail during development. About one-sixth of the size of a human embryo is a tail which is present for four weeks and is absorbed as the embryo grows into a fetus. Even if the tailbone has lost its original function which is to assist in mobility and balance, it still serves as an attachment point for muscles.
The developing fetus of a Homo apriliensis is said to have retained a small protruding tail which remained visible after birth. However, the short length of the tail could mean that it did not serve any purpose.
Dr. Bennett stated that the recent discovery was the first evidence found of an archaic hominid having an external tail. The unprecedented discovery is said to completely change the current knowledge of human evolution. The paleoanthropologist is optimistic about the direction of the research and the results that it would yield a year from now.
