Million-year-old Atlas elephant tusk unearthed at Tighennif archaeological site in Mascara

The tusk, attributed to an extinct species, was unearthed during the 11th excavation campaign led by the National Center for Research in Prehistory, Anthropology, and History CNRPAH. Its exceptional state of preservation makes it a significant find for the site, which is considered one of North Africa's most important archaeological locations. Mohamed Sahnouni, head of the mission, supervised the discovery.

The tusk was found alongside fossils of other mammals and Acheulean lithic tools, providing insights into the fauna and human practices of the Lower Paleolithic period. The remarkable fossil will be transferred to the CNRPAH laboratory in Algiers for in-depth analysis and restoration. Researchers aim to better understand the biological characteristics of the extinct Atlas elephant and reconstruct the natural environment of the region from a million years ago.

This data will enrich the scientific understanding of North African prehistoric fauna. The simultaneous presence of Acheulean tools also suggests interactions between early hominids and large mammals of that era. Excavations at the site are ongoing until June 23, with the possibility of further discoveries.