Neanderthals used a complex multi-component adhesive made of bitumen and ocher to create stone tools, showcasing a high level of cognition and cultural development. The findings suggest that these ancient humans had similar cognitive abilities to early Homo sapiens in Africa. The tools from Le Moustier, previously undiscovered, were found to have well-preserved adhesive remnants, highlighting the innovative techniques used by Neanderthals. The surprising discovery challenges previous assumptions about the capabilities of Neanderthals in tool-making. The research, led by Patrick Schmidt, demonstrates the significance of adhesive technology in understanding human evolution.
https://phys.org/news/2024-02-neanderthals-usage-complex-adhesives-reveals.html