The species Australopithecus africanus represents a landmark discovery in paleoanthropology, serving as the first evidence that humans originated in Africa. The "Southern Ape" of Africa
: Slightly larger than A. afarensis , averaging 420–500 cc.
: Primarily found in South Africa, including the famous Sterkfontein Caves . australopithecus africanus
: Rounder cranium, less sloping face, and smaller teeth than earlier hominins.
: Latin Australo (southern), Greek pithecus (ape), and africanus (of Africa). less sloping face
: Lived approximately 3.3 to 2.1 million years ago.
: Habitual bipeds (walked on two legs) but retained long arms for climbing. Greek pithecus (ape)
: Had human-like ankle joints and pelvis for efficient ground walking. Evolutionary Significance