What percentage of the human genome is suggested to be similar to that of Neanderthals?

The suggestion that 1-4% of the human genome is similar to that of Neanderthals is based on significant genetic research comparing modern humans with Neanderthal DNA. Studies have shown that after the interbreeding between anatomically modern humans and Neanderthals, a small percentage of DNA was passed down through generations. This percentage, typically cited as being between 1% and 4%, indicates that non-African modern human populations have inherited some genetic material from Neanderthal ancestors.

This admixture is particularly notable in populations outside Africa since Neanderthals primarily inhabited Europe and Asia. As a result, this genetic legacy is more pronounced in these populations compared to those in Africa, where such interbreeding did not occur.

Understanding this percentage is crucial for comprehending human evolution and the resulting genetic diversity found in today's populations, as well as the implications for traits and diseases influenced by Neanderthal alleles. Other ranges suggested, such as 5-10% or higher percentages, do not align with current genetic evidence, which supports the lower estimate.