australopithecus africanus

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australopithecus africanus

A scientist carefully examines a fossil skull of Australopithecus africanus.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A gracile hominid of southern Africa; from about 3 million years ago: Australopithecus africanus is an extinct species of early hominid, characterized by a more lightly built (gracile) skull and skeleton compared to some other australopithecines. Its fossil remains have been found in southern Africa and are dated to approximately 3 million years ago.
Usage Examples
  • Noun:
    • The Taung Child is the famous fossil skull of Australopithecus africanus. (The Taung Child is the famous fossil skull of Australopithecus africanus.)
    • Scientists study Australopithecus africanus to understand human evolution. (Scientists study Australopithecus africanus to understand human evolution.)
    • This fossil site yielded several specimens of Australopithecus africanus. (This fossil site yielded several specimens of Australopithecus africanus.)
Advanced Usage
  • In paleoanthropological context: The name is used in formal taxonomic and scientific discussions about human origins.
    • The debate continues over whether Australopithecus africanus is a direct ancestor of the genus Homo. (The debate continues over whether Australopithecus africanus is a direct ancestor of the genus Homo.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Australopithecine (noun/adjective): A member of the genus or a related genus; of or pertaining to this group.
    • The australopithecine fossils were carefully analyzed. (The australopithecine fossils were carefully analyzed.)
  • Australopithecus (noun): The genus name to which this species belongs.
    • The genus Australopithecus includes several species. (The genus Australopithecus includes several species.)
Synonyms
  • Southern African gracile australopithecine: A descriptive synonym referencing its location and physical form.
  • Taung fossil hominid: A reference based on the location of its first major discovery.
Related Phrases
  • Type specimen: The original fossil specimen used to define the species.
    • The Taung Child is the type specimen for Australopithecus africanus. (The Taung Child is the type specimen for Australopithecus africanus.)
australopithecus africanus

A scientist carefully examines a fossil skull of Australopithecus africanus.

Noun
  1. gracile hominid of southern Africa; from about 3 million years ago

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