What is the primary geographic range of H. neanderthalensis?

The primary geographic range of Homo neanderthalensis, commonly known as Neanderthals, is largely concentrated in Europe, with significant evidence of their presence also found in parts of the Middle East and Western Asia. Neanderthals inhabited these regions during their existence, which spanned from approximately 400,000 to 40,000 years ago. Fossil sites and archaeological findings provide substantial proof of their adaptation to various climates in Europe, including both temperate and cold environments.

Their range is especially noted in areas like modern-day Germany, France, and parts of Italy, where several of the most significant Neanderthal fossil sites have been discovered. Additionally, sites in the Levant region of the Middle East have revealed that they extended their habitation into this area, suggesting a wider adaptability and movement than previously understood. The evidence indicates that while they were closely associated with Europe, their ability to traverse different terrains allowed them to occupy diverse ecological niches within this broader geographic range.

In contrast, the other options misrepresent the Neanderthals' habitat, as they did not inhabit North America, were not exclusive to Africa, nor did they primarily reside in East Asia or Arctic regions. The known findings confirm that their evolutionary and cultural developments were primarily