New research suggests ancestors of the “hobbits” were even smaller. Two decades ago, researchers discovered fossils of an early human species in an Indonesian cave that stood 3 1/2 feet tall, earning them the nickname “hobbits.”

Twenty years ago on an Indonesian island, scientists discovered fossils of an early human species that stood at about 3 1/2 feet (1.07 meters) tall — earning them the nickname “hobbits.”

Now a new study suggests ancestors of the hobbits were even slightly shorter.

“We did not expect that we would find smaller individuals from such an old site,” study co-author Yousuke Kaifu of the University of Tokyo said in an email.

  • Varyk@sh.itjust.worksEnglish
    16·
    1 month ago

    tldr

    “Further analysis of a tiny arm bone fragment and teeth suggests the ancestors were a mere 2.4 inches (6 centimeters) shorter and existed 700,000 years ago.”

    • TexasDrunk@lemmy.worldEnglish
      11·
      1 month ago

      Get out of here with your science, don’t nobody believe that. They were a foot and a half tall and had magical powers.

      Seriously though, thank you for the summary of the important info. It’s much appreciated.