Just when scientists think they’ve got a handle on the human race and where we fit in the scheme of things, life leads them to little discoveries that throw everything back up in the air again. Our knowledge base is continually challenged and disrupted by our discoveries, with no better example than that of this confusing cave in Africa. Within its murky depths, scientists discovered a unique heap of human bones. Nothing like it had ever been found before.
These remains didn’t correspond to any data we have of the development of humans throughout ancient history, and scientists named it Homo naledi. Not enough data has been gathered yet regarding the exact age of this species, but it is currently estimated to be around 3 million years old. This hominid has a smaller brain cavity than that of modern humans, with a more pronounced brow ridge.
Cannibalism in Ancient Societies
Researchers have been trying to flesh out more details about how the Neanderthals lived thousands of years ago. Over the years we have been able to unearth some vital clues as to their appearances, as well as odds and ends about their culture. Then a Spanish cave delivered some shocking new developments. Evidence found within suggest the practice of cannibalism may have been rife among Neanderthals.
Are you ready to be creeped out? In this cave, human bones were found with bite marks in them. They are estimated to be around 10,000 years old, and have clearly been cooked and chewed on. What actually happened here is for our imagination to fill in. But studies suggest the Neanderthals likely did this as a tactic to intimidate rival tribes, rather than for nourishment.
Aquatic Lemurs
The ancient creatures that once roamed the Earth were gargantuan, even in comparison to the largest of the creatures we share the planet with today. So much so that there even used to be giant dragonflies buzzing across virgin forests, colossal birds and deer that stood more than ten-feet tall.
Lemurs probably aren’t the first creatures to come to mind when you think about large animals. But divers have uncovered lemur bones in an underwater cave in Madagascar, which startled them because of their enormous size. These mammals are arboreal, meaning they normally live in trees. How their bones came to rest in this deep, underwater cave is a mystery. For now, the most likely explanation is that they were washed away by the currents. Though the idea of giant, swimming lemurs migrating via the ocean is pretty cool (if far-fetched).
The Rainbow Cave
This remarkable cave in China appears to have been made out of particles from a rainbow. It is called the Karst Cave, and it is said to have been whittled by an ancient river that flowed through it 500,000 years ago.
What makes the Karst so beautiful inside is that the composition of its rocks, stalactites and pillars, reflect a blend of yellow, blue, and purple. It is also known as the Reed Flute Cave. Back in the war, due its accessibility, the Chinese once used this cave as a hideout, specifically against air raids. Not only is it beautiful, but it has saved countless lives, too.
A Different Kind of Pearl
One can only imagine the myriad of wonders to be found in this deep, mysterious cave. The stalactites and the stalagmites themselves capture our attention, taking the form of altars inside. We are at awe by the knowledge of how they are formed out of soluble material and its dripping for many many years until they are hardened, even crystallized.
Caves are capable of coming up with their own version of pearls, too. They may not be as valuable as those from the South Sea, but they are smooth and wonderful to witness. They are formed by the dripping of calcite-heavy water onto dirt, which in time solidifies into a collection of smooth spheres.