The beginning of June 2007 have brought a collection of interesting headlines that touch upon the intrigue of science, archeology, astronomy, ancient practices, and the daily changes of the world. In this article, we will take a look at some of the new discoveries in Suriname, an ancient city find from space, as well as take a look into some of the unknown and interesting practices that ancient Europeans may have followed.
New Species Discovered in Suriname
Researchers in Suriname are proud to present a list of 24 new species that have been uncovered in the South American highlands that include an ultra-attractive purple fluorescent frog. This recent discovery is highly noted because the collection of species outside of the insect world found is quite extraordinary. Some of the species found in Suriname belong to the frog and fish species of creatures. Scientists have uncovered four additional frog species, six species of fish, 12 dung beetles, and a new species of ants.
With the help of thirteen scientists, exploration of the region took place close to 80 miles southeast of Paramaribo, which included clean fresh water resources that accommodated a wealth of fish and amphibians. The Guayana Shield region, which is spread across parts of Suriname, Guyana, French Guiana, and the northern part of Brazil, is where the species of critters were found. A rare armored catfish was also part of the discovery.
Hopefully, the coverage that the new species has gained will alert the public to the importance of conservation in the vicinity , many of the animals on the list are threatened by the illegal gold mining that takes place in the area.
Early European Practices Revealed
A new study has suggested that the hunter-gatherers associated with the prehistoric record of Europe may have practiced human sacrifice. The discovery comes from the analysis of an assortment of graves hailing from the Upper Paleolithic era (which covered around 26,000 to 8,000 BC). Archeologists have found many different graves that have contained pairs or even groups of individuals who were given an elaborate burial with many offerings and decoration. Many of the remains were young in age or displayed deformities, such as dwarfism. It is believed that the way in which such a diverse collection of bodies was arranged and received special attention that this was indicative of a ritual killing.
Ancient Egyptian City Seen From Space
Archeologists have reported that satellites positioned above Egypt have discovered a metropolis that once thrived about 1,600 years ago. Situated about 200 miles south of Cairo, the images reveal telling signs of previous habitation that occurred on a stretch of land that formed an ancient settlement with a history that dates back to 400 AD. Researchers believe they have happened upon a region that once traded with the like of Greece, Turkey, and Libya.
This type of satellite imaging is the same method of exploration that may have also revealed ancient Mayan canals a couple of years ago that once existed around 900 AD.