Pierolapithecus catalaunicus, shown here in an artist's conception, was an ancient ape that may have been the last common ancestor of all great apes and humans. Discovered in Catalonia, Spain, the fossil of Pierolapithecus catalaunicus is roughly 13 million years old.

Scientists believe that the newfound species's stiff lower spine and other special adaptations for climbing link this species to modern great apes.

Read the news story about the Pierolapithecus catalaunicus fossil discovery.

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Photo gallery by Chelsea Lane-Miller