Discuss major species of Australopithecus discovered from South and East Africa. Describe the discovery, physical features and significance of Taung baby.
Major Species of Australopithecus Discovered from South and East Africa Several important species of Australopithecus have been discovered, mainly from South and East Africa: Australopithecus afarensis (East Africa) Famous fossils: "Lucy" (discovered in Hadar, Ethiopia, 1974) and Laetoli footprints (Tanzania). Lived around 3.9–2.9 million years ago. Features: Small brain (about 400–500 cc), human-like pelvis and leg bones indicating bipedalism, but still had curved fingers suggesting some tree-climbing. Australopithecus africanus (South Africa) Famous fossils: Taung Child, Mrs. Ples (from Sterkfontein). Lived around 3–2 million years ago. Features: Larger brain than afarensis (~450–550 cc), smaller teeth, more rounded skull, and bipedal walking. Australopithecus anamensis (East Africa) Discovered in Kenya and Ethiopia. Lived around 4.2–3.9 million years ago. Features: Very primitive skull and teeth, evidence of bipedalism. Australopi...