What is the retromolar gap associated with?

The retromolar gap is primarily associated with Neanderthals. This anatomical feature refers to the space that exists behind the last molar, which is often wider in Neanderthal fossils compared to those of modern humans. This distinctive gap contributes to our understanding of the dental morphology of Neanderthals, which is quite different from that of contemporary human beings.

Evolutionarily, the retromolar gap reflects adaptations related to diet and jaw mechanics in Neanderthals, suggesting they had robust jaws suited for processing a variety of foods. This characteristic ultimately helps anthropologists differentiate between Neanderthal remains and those of other hominins, such as modern humans and early African hominids, who typically do not exhibit this feature to the same degree.

In summary, the presence of the retromolar gap is a noteworthy trait that helps in the analysis and classification of Neanderthal skeletal remains, furthering our understanding of human evolution.