Origins of Genus Homo
Despite discoveries of remarkable new fossils in recent years, the evolutionary events surrounding the origins of genus Homo are incompletely understood. This CARTA symposium explores evidence bearing on the emergence of our genus, focusing on possible antecedents to Homo, changes in diet and body form as Australopithecus evolved toward Homo,
ancient species within the genus, and evolutionary processes likely operating 2.5 - 1.5 million years ago. (from carta.anthropogeny.org)
Adaptive Shifts Accompanying the Origin of Homo. Harvard's Daniel Lieberman argues that genus Homo differs from other early hominins through an integrated suite of behaviors, collectively termed hunting and gathering, that emerged sometime between 3 and 2 mya. The emergent properties associated with hunting and gathering made possible increased access to energy.
More energy, in turn, led to further selection for increased brain size, larger body size, and slower life histories, characteristics which are all associated with the genus Homo.
| 4. Adaptive Shifts Accompanying the Origin of Homo |
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