A (claimed) new species of Hominin (Homo naledi) has been discovered in South Africa. The species' primitive anatomy, small stature and small brain size suggest that it evolved near or at the beginning of the genus Homo, and existed 2.5 million to 2.8 million years ago… but more evidence and precise dating is needed to confirm this. Some sources are saying that the fossils could be anywhere between 2 million and 20,000 years old, but the cave in which the bones were found is geologically no older than 3 million years.
Skeletal analysis suggests Homo naledi stood upright and was fully bipedal but the shoulders are suggestive of “tree-swinging” behaviour. Its hip mechanics are similar to australopithecines, but its feet and ankles are more similar to the genus Homo. The teeth and mandible musculature are much smaller than those of most australopithecines, suggesting a diet that did not require heavy mastication. The hands appear to be better adapted for manipulation of items than those of australopithicines. All in all, assignment to Homo looks more probable than assignment to Australopithecus.
Skeletal analysis suggests Homo naledi stood upright and was fully bipedal but the shoulders are suggestive of “tree-swinging” behaviour. Its hip mechanics are similar to australopithecines, but its feet and ankles are more similar to the genus Homo. The teeth and mandible musculature are much smaller than those of most australopithecines, suggesting a diet that did not require heavy mastication. The hands appear to be better adapted for manipulation of items than those of australopithicines. All in all, assignment to Homo looks more probable than assignment to Australopithecus.
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