Indigenous peoples in the Bolivian highlands have survived in one of the harshest climates on Earth for thousands of years, evolving significant genetic adaptations. In addition to acclimatizing to low oxygen levels, these populations, including the Uru, Aymara, and Quechua, have developed the ability to metabolize naturally occurring arsenic in their drinking water. This adaptation signifies a remarkable example of natural selection, contrary to the long-held belief that human evolution occurred at a leisurely pace. The research challenges previous assumptions about the rate of human adaptation and survival.
"In the harsh environment of the Bolivian highlands, Indigenous peoples have evolved genetic adaptations to survive the low oxygen levels and arsenic in their water supply."
"Scientists have discovered that Andean populations have developed mechanisms to metabolize arsenic efficiently, showcasing the role of natural selection in human evolution in extreme conditions."
#indigenous-peoples #genetic-adaptation #natural-selection #arsenic-metabolism #high-altitude-survival
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