: Lived approximately 3.3 to 2.1 million years ago.
: Slightly larger than A. afarensis , averaging 420–500 cc. australopithecus africanus
The species Australopithecus africanus represents a landmark discovery in paleoanthropology, serving as the first evidence that humans originated in Africa. The "Southern Ape" of Africa : Lived approximately 3
: Primarily found in South Africa, including the famous Sterkfontein Caves . australopithecus africanus
: Had human-like ankle joints and pelvis for efficient ground walking. Evolutionary Significance
: First identified by Raymond Dart in 1924 via the "Taung Child" fossil. Physical Characteristics