DNA reveals mysterious indigenous population that lived hidden in Argentina for 8,500 years

Distinct genetics over millennia and several languages: the reason why this population remained isolated for so long, despite there being no geographical barriers, remains an enigma.

Researchers recently discovered a previously unknown indigenous population that inhabited central Argentina for almost 8,500 years, largely isolated from other indigenous communities in the area.

The research, out November 5 in the journal Nature, analyzed 238 genomes from ancient skeletons dating back up to 10,000 years, revealing a “deep lineage” that persisted until at least 1800 AD without significantly mixing with other populations.

Although other indigenous lineages had previously been identified in the central Andes, the Amazon and Patagonia, little was known about the inhabitants of the intermediate territory of central Argentina. The international team of researchers sought to answer a central question: given the strategic location of this region, was the population a mix of known ancestors or had it maintained its own identity?

The results were surprising: despite their proximity to other populations, this group maintained a distinct genetics for millennia.

The data suggests that, even in the face of phenomena that normally cause population changes — such as prolonged droughts, the transition from hunting and gathering to agriculture, and the arrival of Amazonian peoples — this lineage remained cohesive. Interestingly, genetic homogeneity persisted despite the linguistic diversity historically recorded in the region, indicating that individuals of this lineage they probably spoke several different languages.

The study also reveals that this lineage still contributes significantly to the genetic heritage of modern Argentine populations, suggesting that the presence of this group continues to influence the genetic makeup of the region to this day. The reason why this population remained isolated for so long, despite there being no geographical barriers, remains a enigma.

Rodrigo Nores, geneticist at the National University of Córdoba and co-author of the study, highlighted in the magazine that the research provides a new perspective on migration and indigenous diversity in South America.

Although not the final word on Argentina’s genetic history, researchers believe the results offer a solid basis for future correlations with archaeological data and to better understand human evolution in this crucial region of the world.