Gigantopithecus blacki was the largest primate that ever lived on Earth. It reached a height of over 3 meters and became extinct about 215,000 to 295,000 years ago. Until now, its disappearance has been shrouded in mystery.
Research has shown that it was due to the difficulties the species faced in trying to adapt to a rapidly changing environment.
The first evidence of the creature appeared in 1935, when its fossilized teeth were found in China. But because of the limited number of fossils discovered (only about 2,000 teeth and a few jaws), we still know very little about its physical appearance.
Scientists surveyed caves in the PRC to solve the mystery of Gigantopithecus’ disappearance. They collected pollen samples, fossils and sediments and analyzed them.
