Exam review, Paranthropus (genus) Flashcards
what is included in Paranthropines
P. aethiopicus (2.7 – 2.5 mya), E. Africa
• P. boisei (2.3-‐1.2 mya), E. Africa
• P. robustus (2.0-‐1.5 mya), S. Africa
when did P. aethiopicus exits
(2.7 – 2.5 mya)
when did P. boisei exist
(2.3-‐1.2 mya)
when did P. robustus exist
(2.0-‐1.5 mya)
what is the cranial morphology of P. aethiopicus
prominent sagittal crest (presumably only on males) anchors large temporalis muscles.
Cranial capacity is very low (around 410 cc) and the forehead is strongly sloping
zygomatic arches are flaring
high degree of facial prognathism
“post-canine megadontia”
where was P. aethiopicus found
Omo, Ethiopia
E. Africa
what is the cranial morphology of Paranthropus boisei
Well-developed supraorbital tori
moderate degree of facial prognathism
where was Paranthropus boisei found
Olduvai, Kenya
E. Africa
where was Paranthropus robustus found
Southern African sites Kromdraai and Swartkrans
what are the important cranial morphology traits of Paranthropus robustus
moderate degree of facial prognathism
Possible evidence for tool use comes from where
Swartkrans
Possible evidence for tool use comes from Swartkrans, in the form of what
“digging sticks”
what is the cranial difference between Australopithecus and Paranthropus
Australopithecus (Genus)
Narrow cranium, with moderate vault elevation above orbits.
Sagittal crest is generally absent in males.
Weak supraorbital tori and variable facial prognathism.
Molars are small or intermediate in size; canines are jutting and large
Broad cranium, with very low vault elevation.
Sagittal crest is generally present in males. A flat face, strong supraorbital tori
and variable facial prognathism.
Molars are thick with strong enamel; canines are in line with the overall dental arcade
what was the diet difference between Australopithecus and Paranthropus
A.
Dentition is generally better suited to leaves, fleshy fruits and meat.
P.
Dentition is better suited to tough, fibrous vegetation, such as roots, tubers and nuts
