Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Science

Ancient graves and DNA uncover family bonds that went beyond genetics

You probably have a member of your family that you're not related to by blood—a step-parent, an adopted cousin, your mom's best friend who you grew up calling your aunt. They're indisputably part of your family, but a DNA test wouldn't hint at your relationship. Archaeologists are finding that this...

Ancient graves and DNA uncover family bonds that went beyond genetics
Image: Phys.org
You probably have a member of your family that you're not related to by blood—a step-parent, an adopted cousin, your mom's best friend who you grew up calling your aunt. They're indisputably part of your family, but a DNA test wouldn't hint at your relationship. Archaeologists are finding that this holds true for families from thousands of years ago, too.

Originally published at Phys.org

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