Altamura Man Skull Rewrites Neanderthal Nose Evolution

• A new study challenges the long-held belief that Neanderthal's large noses were an adaptation to cold, dry Ice Age climates.
• Examination of the remarkably preserved Altamura Man skull revealed internal nasal anatomy similar to modern humans in temperate climates, not cold-adapted populations.
• Researchers now suggest Neanderthal facial shape, including large noses, was a byproduct of their robust build and overall larger skeletal proportions.
• This discovery, based on intact internal nasal bones, overturns previous assumptions and re-evaluates how Neanderthals survived cold environments.

Why It Matters: This discovery reshapes our understanding of Neanderthal cold climate adaptation.