Denisovan 3-rooted LM2 lacks homology to Asian 3RLM trait, invalidating introgression claim.
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Bailey et al. claim Denisovan LM2's third root evidences introgression into Asian Homo sapiens. Third root occurs in under 3.5% non-Asians but up to 40% Asians and Native Americans for LM1. LM2 third root frequencies are rare worldwide including Asians at 1-2%. Denisovan extra root is mesiolingual and oversized unlike distolingual one-third size 3RLM in moderns. Penghu fossil shows non-homologous supernumerary root between mesial and distal. Bifurcated mesial roots appear in modern populations but differ from archetypal 3RLM. Feature provides no morphological evidence of Denisovan-Asian link. Introgression interpretation not sustained by dental evidence. Hybridization does not always produce intermediate or mosaic morphologies. Admixture often causes novel traits not archaic retention. Higher primitive feature expression does not prove introgression. Isolated dental features should not be overinterpreted for archaic admixture.

Denisovans Homo Sapiens Northeast Asia North America Evolution Genetics Science Hybrids

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