11B - Hominin Evolution Flashcards
genus (pl. genera)
A taxonomic rank above species and below family. Modern humans belong to the genus Homo.
biped
An individual that moves on two legs (upright-walking).
arboreal
Living in or amongst trees.
cerebrum
The largest part of the brain, which comprises two-thirds of the brain’s entire weight and is responsible for a large range of vital functions including sensory processing, motor control and visual and spatial learning.
sagittal crest
A ridge a hard bone running lengthwise (front to back) along the top of the skull. A pronounced sagittal crest indicates strong jaw muscles.
arm to leg ratio
The ratio of arm length to leg length. Tree-dwelling hominids have longer arms and shorter legs. Or a larger arm to leg ratio.