Question

What is the eco-niche that Homo erectus first adapted to? Discuss at least 4 environmental, adaptive, anatomical, or behavioral factors that may be relevant to being successful in this eco-niche.

Answer 1

The earlier hominids usually survived in limited eco-niches, for example, Neanderthals hunted mainly in forests and grasslands. Homo erectus originated in Africa and were the first of our ancestors to spread out and increase their geographical range to other continents about 1.6 - 1.8 million years ago. Homo erectus fossils have been found in various regions of Eurasia indicating that they were far superior in manipulating and utilizing the resources which enabled them to survive in diverse environments. Following characteristics of Homo erectus also enabled them to adapt to new environments

1. They walked erect and had a larger body size as compared to other hominids. This characteristic increased their efficiency to move from place to place and cover larger distances as compared to other hominids.

2. Increased brain size, almost 50% larger than the earlier hominids. This increased size in brain capacity enabled them to achieve better capabilities to survive in diverse environments.

For example, they were the first ones to control fire and possibly use it to keep themselves warm and cook food.

The design of tools was also improved which enabled them to hunt medium and large-sized animals as opposed to earlier hominids which hunted only weak or old animals.

3. The bone forming wall of the nose was thinner and the nasal bridge was high and prominent equipping them to conserve moisture which would be lost otherwise in the exhaled air. This possibly allowed H.erectus to survive and travel longer in an arid climate.

4. Reduced size of dentition especially molars and premolars compared to the robust dentition of other hominids indicating that their diet was diverse including fruits, nuts, cereals apart from meat. They had also possibly started cooking food which led to smaller and more flexible dentition.