In: Anatomy and Physiology
Choose ONE particular characteristic of early hominids that differentiate them from apes. Compare/contrast that characteristic - this could be anatomical or cultural in nature. Cite any sources you use and do NOT duplicate! Please do not use Teeth, Pelvis, Knees, or Spine
Both humans and apes belong to a group of primates known as hominoidea. Apes are the ancestors of humans. Approximately about 10 million years ago the apes were classified as greater and lesser apes. About 200,000 to 250,00 years ago the humans or homo sapiens came into existence.
The cranial capacity of apes was 400cm³ while that of early hominids to today's homo sapiens it varies from 400cm³ to 1400 cm³.
comparison of skull of apes with early hominids
1. Foramen-magnum: In apes it was at the backside of the skull due to not so fully upright posture while the early hominids have foramen magnum at its base.
2. Nuchal area: apes have very large nuchal area. And early hominids have narrow nuchal area.
3. Temporal area: ales have lager temporal area because of larger zygomatic arch and early hominids have smaller temporal area.
4. Brow ridge: apes have wider brow ridge as compared to early hominids.