ISSN:
1824-310X
Keywords:
Hominid evolution
;
Australopithecus
;
robust polyphyly
;
gorilla
;
chimpanzee
;
bonobo
;
Lucy
;
Taung
;
molecular clock
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract Since australopithecines display humanlike traits such as short ilia, relatively small front teeth and thick molar enamel, they are usually assumed to be related toHomo rather than toPan orGorilla. However, this assumption is not supported by many other of their features. This paper briefly surveys the literature concerning craniodental comparisons of australopith species with those of bonobos, common chimps, humans and gorillas, adult and immature. It will be argued, albeit on fragmentary data, that the large australopiths of East Africa were in many instances anatomically and therefore possibly also evolutionarily nearer toGorilla than toPan orHomo, and the South African australopiths nearer toPan andHomo than toGorilla. An example of a possible evolutionary tree is provided. It is suggested that the evidence concerning the relation of the different australopithecines with humans, chimpanzees and gorillas should be re-evaluated.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF02437259
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