News · 19 November 2025
Kissing evolved 21 million years ago study finds
Oxford University researchers have determined that romantic kissing evolved approximately 21 million years ago in the common ancestor of humans and great apes. Using computer simulations and primate behavioral data, scientists found kissing presents an evolutionary puzzle as it carries disease transmission risks without obvious survival benefits. The study suggests modern primates including chimpanzees, bonobos, orangutans and gorillas all inherited this behavior. Evidence also indicates Neanderthals and early humans likely engaged in kissing behavior, supported by shared oral bacteria discovered in both species.
Reported by Oxford University · How we write briefs