Australopithecines
Australopithecus africanus
"Taung Child"
3.3–2.1 Ma·1.20 Ma·Discovered 1924
Description
The first African hominin discovered. Raymond Dart changed history: Africa, not Asia, was our cradle.
Notable facts
- The Taung Child was 3-4 years old
- Probably killed by an eagle (Berger & Clarke 1995)
- The discovery was rejected for 20 years
- Originated the term "Australopithecus" = "southern ape"
Key specimens
Taung 1
Taung Child
Skull and brain endocast of a 3-4 year old child. Identified by Raymond Dart in 1924.
Sts 5
"Mrs. Ples"
Almost complete cranium from Sterkfontein, found by Robert Broom in 1947.
Sts 14
Pelvis and vertebrae
Postcranial elements confirming bipedalism.
Anatomy
Small canines, parabolic dental arch, modest brain enlargement.
Locomotion
Fully bipedal, but with somewhat curved finger bones for occasional climbing.
Diet
Mixed: fruits, leaves, seeds; some animal foods.
Where to see it
University of the Witwatersrand and Ditsong Museum, South Africa.
Media & references
Image ·
Wikimedia Commons · Wikipedia article