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Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery off the coast of Australia, unveiling vast underwater landscapes that reveal a mosaic of human settlement dating back over 65,000 years. This new “Atlantis” provides a window into the lives of thousands of people who once inhabited these now-submerged regions, offering a glimpse into a past that extends far back into the last Ice Age. As scientists delve into these ancient underwater worlds, they uncover secrets that could rewrite the history of human migration and settlement.
By August Roberts
A Glimpse into Sahul’s Past
The study, published in “Quaternary Science Reviews,” details a complex landscape that once existed on the Northwest Shelf of Australia, part of the mega-continent Sahul, which included present-day Australia, Tasmania, and New Guinea. This landscape was unlike any found on the continent today, offering a rich tapestry of lakes, rivers, and even a large inland sea called Malita. These findings challenge previous notions of the ecological productivity of these shelves, suggesting a vibrant, habitable landscape teeming with life.
The Rise and Fall of a Lost World
As the last Ice Age ended about 18,000 years ago, rising temperatures caused sea levels to rise, submerging vast portions of continents worldwide. This process split Sahul into separate landmasses, isolating Tasmania and transforming the once expansive and fertile Northwest Shelf into an underwater realm. The researchers’ ecological modeling indicates that between 50,000 and 500,000 people might have lived in these areas over the last 65,000 years, supported by the rich ecosystems of the newly revealed island archipelago.
Human Adaptation and Migration
The study suggests that the inhabitants of these ancient landscapes utilized the islands as stepping stones, gradually migrating from Indonesia to Australia. This migration was facilitated by the rich ecosystems of the islands, which provided ample resources for the journey. The discovery of stone tools on the seafloor off the coast of West Australia’s Pilbara region further supports the theory that these areas were significantly more fertile and widely used than previously thought.
Retracing Steps into the Ancient World
The uncovering of this underwater Atlantis is not just a revelation about the past; it’s a journey back in time that reshapes our understanding of human history. As the sea levels rose, these once thriving communities were forced to retreat, leaving behind a submerged world that is only now being brought back to light. The discovery of art styles in rock paintings from the Kimberley and Arnhemland regions of Australia suggest a cultural shift as communities adapted to their changing world.
The discovery of an ancient underwater landscape off the coast of Australia is a monumental find that opens up new avenues for understanding human history and the world we live in. As researchers continue to map and study these submerged worlds, they uncover the past and gain insights into the resilience and adaptability of human societies. This underwater Atlantis is a testament to the enduring human spirit and the ever-evolving story of our planet.