A recent discovery of a giant human skull found in China compelled researchers to re-evaluate the trajectory of human evolution known to the world. The remains were wrapped up and hidden inside a well about 90 years ago, researchers said. The skull, which is believed to be 146,000 years old, is 23cm long and more than 15cm wide- substantially larger than a normal human skull, reported Guardian.

A detailed analysis by the experts has revealed a new branch of the human family tree that directs to a previously unknown sister group more closely related to modern humans than the Neanderthals.

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While other experts have refrained from designating a new name or species to the finding on the basis of skulls, Chinese researchers have taken the liberty to name it new human species, Homo longi or ‘Dragon man.’

Professor Chris Stringer, research leader at the Natural History Museum in London, who calls it a wonderfully preserved fossil said, “I think this is one of the most important finds of the past 50 years.”

“The skull has ample room, at 1,420ml, for a modern human brain. Beneath the thick brow ridge, the face has large square eye sockets, but is delicate despite its size. This guy had a huge head,” Stringer added.

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The researchers believed that the skull belonged to a male, in his 50s with impressive physical specimen and features.

In addition to that an international team led by professor Qiang Ji at the Hebei Geo University also shed light on its features. They found that the skull came to rest in China’s Harbin and has a unique combination of primitive and modern characteristics. It also had one huge molar

While Chinese researchers believe the Harbin skull is distinct enough to call it a new species, Stringer is not convinced and of the opinion that this newly discovered skull is similar to another found in Dali County in China in 1978.