Early Hominins and Evolutionary Trends

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to early hominins and their evolution.

Bipedalism

The defining characteristic of hominin evolution, referring to walking on two legs.

Australopithecus

A genus of bipedal hominins that lived during the Pliocene and Pleistocene epochs.

Paleoanthropology

The study of ancient humans and their relatives through fossils.

Homo habilis

Considered one of the earliest members of the genus Homo, characterized by a larger brain size compared to earlier hominins.

Oldowan tools

The earliest known stone tool industry, characterized by simple stone tools made through percussion flaking.

Significance of Foramen Magnum

Its central location in bipedal hominins indicates an upright posture.

Paranthropus

A genus that includes robust australopithecines, characterized by heavy jaws and large teeth, associated with a diet of tough foods.

Cultural evolution

The changes and adaptations in human culture that have occurred over time, especially related to technological advancements.

Thermoregulation

The physiological process of maintaining body temperature, thought to be a factor in the development of bipedalism.

Sahelanthropus tchadensis

One of the oldest known species in the human lineage, dating back about 7 million years, showing both hominoid and hominin traits.

Kenyanthropus platyops

A proposed species thought to be an early hominin with distinct facial features, potentially related to the genus Homo.

Environmental Change

Major shifts in climate and habitat that likely influenced hominin evolution and adaptation strategies.

Homo erectus

A species known for its ability to use tools and control fire, significant for its role in human evolution.

Brain expansion

The increase in brain size in early hominins, linked to the development of culture and social structures.

Social learning

The process by which individuals learn from one another, crucial for the transmission of culture and technology.