BIO A 201 - 11.10.25 Lecture Notes Fossil Hominins and the Genus Homo - Week 8 Lecture 1

This set of flashcards covers key terms and concepts related to hominin evolution, particularly focusing on various species, physical adaptations, and the relevant anatomical features.

Niacin gap

A nutritional deficiency related to Vitamin B3 that can impact health.

Hominins

The group that includes modern humans and our closest extinct relatives.

Cranial drawings

Illustrations that depict the structure of the skulls of different species.

Tool assemblage

The collection of tools used by a particular hominin species.

Bipedalism

The ability to walk on two legs, a significant trait in human evolution.

Technologies

The use of tools and methods developed by hominins.

Cranial capacity

The volume of the cranium, used to estimate brain size.

Australopithecus afarensis

An early hominin species known for its bipedalism and small brain.

Foramen magnum

The opening in the skull where the spinal cord connects to the brain; its position affects locomotion.

Molar enamel

The covering on the molars that affects durability and longevity of teeth.

Prehensile foot

A foot adapted for grasping, characteristic of some ape-like ancestors.

Thermal regulation hypothesis

A theory suggesting that bipedalism helps with temperature control in hot environments.

Kenyathropus

A proposed genus that may include some Australopithecus specimens with distinct characteristics.

Postorbital constriction

The narrowing of the skull behind the eye sockets, related to muscle attachment for chewing.

Dental arcade

The arrangement of teeth in the mouth, which can indicate dietary habits.

Adaptation

Changes that improve a species' chance of survival in its environment.

Flared ilium

A pelvic characteristic seen in bipedal organisms facilitating walking.

Sexual dimorphism

The differences in appearance between male and female members of the same species.

Ardipithecus ramidus

An early bipedal hominin species from East Africa, noteworthy for its combined ape-like and human-like traits.