Recent research conducted by a team of researchers from the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, including senior author Johannes Kraus and first author Nada Salem, has identified previously unrecognized human lineages, particularly within the Central Sahara, dating back more than 7,000 years. This study provides important insights into the genetic continuity and separation of ancient populations during the humid period of Africa (green Sahara).
The study, centering on two ancient Libyan mummies, provides a new perspective on the history of the region during humid periods of Africa. This is when the Sahara transforms into a lush savanna filled with life and waters that support human habitation and pastoralism.
The findings challenge longstanding beliefs about migration patterns in the region. Contrary to previous interpretations, the genomes of these ancient individuals reveal a prominent lack of sub-Saharan ancestry. This suggests that the Green Sahara was not a moving corridor as once thought, but a space where herd practices spread through cultural exchanges rather than through massive movements of people. This study highlights the limited gene flow between North Africa and sub-Saharan populations, and highlights the unique genetic inheritance of North African lineages.
One of the most interesting aspects of the study is the genetic composition of individuals in the shelter of Takalkori rocks. They show significantly less neanderthal DNA than non-African populations, indicating their status as part of a largely isolated population. This separation allowed for deep genetic continuity in North Africa, especially during the late ice age. This ancient lineage may no longer exist in its pure form, but its genetic heritage continues to be an important element of today's North African ancestry.
This study also has a connection between these ancient individuals and 15,000-year-old foraging people from the Tafert Cave in Morocco. Both groups exhibit similar distances from sub-Saharan lineages, reinforcing the idea that even during the period of green Sahara's prosperity, the flow of genes between these regions remains minimal.
“We've been working hard to understand the quality of our products,” said Johannes Krause, senior author of Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology. This insight adds new layers to understand how ancient populations interacted and adapted to their environment.
The implications of this study go beyond genetics. First author Nada Salem emphasizes that this study challenges previous assumptions about North Africa's population history and uncovers deep-rooted, long-term genetic lineages. This discovery not only raises an understanding of how idyllicism spread across the green Sahara, but also highlights the importance of cultural exchange in shaping human history.
The preservation of ancient DNA became increasingly challenging as the Sahara moved from lush landscapes to the world's largest desert. Therefore, this study is a pioneering effort in ancient DNA research and provides valuable insight into human migration, adaptation, and cultural evolution in this important region.
In conclusion, this study not only enriches North Africa's understanding of the past, but also highlights the importance of ancient DNA in reconstructing human history. Continuing to explore the depths of Saharan history we acquire a clearer picture of the intricate tapestry of human beings that have shaped today's world.
Max Planck Institute for EvolutionaryAnthropology
Salem, N., Van de Loosdrecht, M. S., Sümer, AP et al. The ancient DNA of the green Sahara reveals its ancestral North African lineage. Nature (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/S41586-025-08793-7
Cover Image Credit: View of the Takakalkorilock Shelter in southern Libya. Credit: Archaeological mission at the Sahara University of Sapienza, Rome
