Spanish researchers have found the remains of a 7-year-old boy in the Andes and his DNA suggests that the population was more diverse before colonization by Spanish explorers, according to the Guardian.
The boy was found in 1985 near the top of one of the world's tallest mountains, the Aconcagua. He lived among the Incas and was supposedly sacrificed.
Scientists have analyzed the boy's mummified remains and through closer inspection of his DNA, they found that his genetic strain has "virtually disappeared in modern South Americans."
The researchers put together a study, detailing how they believe the gene pool was radically altered as a consequence of Spanish colonization. "Up to 90 percent of native South Americans died very quickly," said Antonio Salas, lead researcher. "You can imagine a lot of genetic diversity was lost as well."
Though the influence of outsiders played a part, it is also important to note that diseases played a heavier role in the death of many Native Americans, more so than any other factor, according to researchers.
Cross referencing the data with DNA records, the scientists were only able to find three genetic matches in modern society, according to Science Alert.
The study has been published in Scientific Reports.
