Early Hominins Vocabulary

Early Hominins Flashcards

Bipedality

The principal trait of hominins, involving walking upright on two legs.

Ardipithecus ramidus

The earliest species with definitive evidence of bipedality, dating back approximately 4.4 million years ago.

Australopithecus afarensis

A famous fossil representing this species, crucial for understanding early hominin evolution.

Paranthropus boisei

Early hominin species known for having the largest molars, adapted for a diet of tough plant foods.

Early Homo

Early members of the Homo genus, distinguished by a significantly larger cranial capacity compared to earlier hominins.

Laetoli footprints

Fossil evidence demonstrating the earliest known bipedal footprints, providing insights into early hominin locomotion.

Ardipithecus ramidus

The species to which the fossil 'Ardi' belongs, representing an important find in understanding early hominin characteristics.

Oldowan tools

Stone tools dating back to approximately 2.6 million years ago, marking a significant development in hominin technological capabilities.

Early Homo

Genus known for confirmed tool use

Ardipithecus ramidus

Species that exhibited both bipedalism and arboreal traits, indicating a transitional phase in hominin evolution.

Male Provisioning Theory

A theory suggesting that males carrying food led to the development of bipedality in hominins.

Sexual dimorphism

Notable differences in body size between males and females within Australopithecus afarensis, suggesting a polygynous social structure.

East Africa & South Africa

Key geographical areas where early hominin fossils have been discovered, providing valuable insights into hominin origins and evolution.

Diet of Paranthropus

The dietary adaptation suggested by the large molars of Paranthropus, suited for consuming tough, fibrous plant materials.

Early Homo

Species known for having the largest brain size among early hominins, reflecting advancements in cognitive abilities.

Sagittal crest

A ridge of bone along the midline of the skull, serving as an attachment point for large chewing muscles.

Paranthropus boisei

Species characterized by having the largest sagittal crest, indicative of powerful chewing capabilities.

Evolutionary Sequence

The evolutionary sequence indicating that bipedality preceded the development and use of stone tools in hominins.

Woodland

The environment in which bipedality likely evolved, providing selective advantages for early hominins.

Early Homo

Species associated with the definite use of Oldowan tools, representing a significant advancement in hominin technological capabilities.