It turns out Indonesian "hobbits" -- 8,000-year-old, 3-foot-tall creatures, may in fact be a separate species from humans.

Scientists analyzed the foot of a "hobbit" -- originally thought to be similar to a modern "pygmy" when remains were first discovered in 2003 --to conclude that the little guy isn't human after all.

After studying the foot of homo floresiensis, researchers now argue that the primitive toes and bone structure suggest the little fella descended from an extinct species of ancient human-like beings.

Other experts have claimed the hobbits were humans whose miniature stature was due to a neurodevelopmental disorder.

Either way, bad news for Elijah Wood.