WHAT ARE THE CHARACTERISTICS OF ERECTUS
erectus is an extinct species of human that lived around 1.9 million to 143,000 years ago. They were an ancestor of modern humans and shared several distinct characteristics. Here are some key characteristics of erectus:
1. Upright posture: erectus had a fully upright posture, which is reflected in their name ("erectus" meaning upright). They were the first hominin to have a fully bipedal gait, meaning they walked on two legs.
2. Increased brain size: erectus had a larger brain size compared to earlier hominin species, although still smaller than modern humans. Their brain size ranged from about 750 to 1250 cubic centimeters, with an average of around 1000 cubic centimeters.
3. Reduced sexual dimorphism: erectus showed a decreased difference in size between males and females compared to earlier hominin species. This suggests a shift towards more monogamous or pair-bonded mating patterns.
4. Tool use and sophistication: erectus was known for their advancements in tool technology. They used more refined stone tools, such as hand axes and cleavers, and were the first hominin species to use fire, which provided them with warmth, protection, and the ability to cook food.
5. Migration and adaptability: erectus was a highly successful and widely dispersed species. They migrated out of Africa into Asia and Europe, adapting to a wide range of environments, including grasslands, woodlands, and coastal areas.
To arrive at these characteristics, scientists have extensively studied fossil remains of erectus, including skeletal remains, stone tools, and other artifacts. By analyzing these pieces of evidence, they can gather information about the physical features, behaviors, and abilities of this ancient human species.