The extinction of the Denisovans remains a mystery as there is little evidence indicating when and why they died out. However, the most recent interbreeding episode with Homo sapiens may have occurred just 30,000 years ago. It is possible that extensive interbreeding caused their genes to merge with the wider early human population, leading to their disappearance.

In a recent article in Art History Today, Svante Pääbo, a leading researcher in ancient DNA, discusses his new study of the Denisovan hominin, an extinct human species closely related to Neanderthals. The Denisovans are the latest known extinct human species, and their timing varies from 15,000 to 30,000 years ago. Our understanding of their evolutionary history continues to evolve as new discoveries are made. The Denisovans, along with other extinct hominin species, have provided valuable insights into the origins and evolution of our species, Homo sapiens.

DNA evidence suggests that the Denisovans survived in New Guinea or its surrounding islands until around 15,000 to 30,000 years ago. This conclusion is based on genetic studies that have identified traces of Denisovan DNA in the genomes of present-day populations in Papua New Guinea and other parts of Melanesia, indicating that interbreeding between modern humans and Denisovans occurred in that region.

There is currently little concrete evidence to suggest what factors might have led to the extinction of the Denisovans. However, there are a few theories that researchers have proposed.

One theory is that climate changes in the region where the Denisovans lived may have played a role in their extinction. The period during which the Denisovans lived was marked by a series of dramatic climate fluctuations, including periods of extreme cold and aridity. These changes may have disrupted the Denisovans' food sources and habitat, making it difficult for them to survive.

Another possibility is that competition with other hominin species, such as Neanderthals and early modern humans, may have contributed to the Denisovans' decline. While there is evidence of interbreeding between these species, there is also evidence of competition for resources and territory.

Finally, it is possible that a combination of environmental changes, competition with other hominins, and other factors contributed to the extinction of the Denisovans. However, without more evidence, it is difficult to say for certain what led to their disappearance.

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