Question

3. The second Adaptive Radiation of hominins is evidenced by the genus Australopithecus. a. Explain the environments and adaptations (traits) that are associated with Australopithecines. Use at least one fossil species as an example.

Answer 1

Ans (a): The representatives of the genus Australopithecus were thought to live in Africa region at around 4 to 2 mya (million years ago). One of the best studied member was referred to as Australopithecus afarensis. They are considered as possible human ancestors who lived on this planet for the longest period during the Pliocene epoch of the Neogene period. The Australopithecus afarensis is popularly known as Lucy and shared mixed characteristics of ape and humans. Their posture was thought to be upright with the capacity to walk on two legs. They had the ability to feed on a plant-based diet. They supposed to be flat-faced with projected jaws and around 3 to 5.5 feet in height. The height of the female was thought to be smaller than male height. They had a less cranial capacity i.e. 500cc. They were known to migrate to nearby areas or travel to shorter distances. They were habituated to climb trees by their strong arms. Small-sized canine teeth and larger cheek teeth were prominent among several characteristic features. Due to the appearance of mixed ape and human-like traits, it is speculated that Australopithecus could be a common ancestor of apes and humans. The other potential examples include Australopithecus anamensis and Australopithecus africanus etc.