(a) Name the two primate ancestors of the present day humans, who existed approximately about 15 million years ago.

(b) According to geological records, when and where did Australopithecines live ?

(c) Give two differences between Homo habilis and Homo erectus.

Correct Answer:
(a) Dryopithecus, Ramapithecus
(b) Time period: 2 million years ago; Place: East African grasslands
(c)
• Homo habilis: Brain capacity between 650 – 800 cc; probably did not eat meat.
• Homo erectus: Brain capacity of 900 cc; probably ate meat.

Detailed Step-by-Step Explanation:

Part (a): Primate Ancestors of Humans (15 Million Years Ago)
About 15 million years ago, two distinct primate groups existed that are considered ancestors of present-day humans:
1. Dryopithecus: These primates were more ape-like, hairy, and walked like gorillas and chimpanzees.
2. Ramapithecus: These primates were more man-like, representing an evolutionary step closer to the hominid lineage.

Part (b): Australopithecines (Time Period and Location)
According to geological and fossil records:
• Time period: Australopithecines lived approximately 2 million years ago (during the late Pliocene to early Pleistocene epochs).
• Place: They lived predominantly in the East African grasslands, where they hunted with stone weapons and essentially ate fruit.

Part (c): Differences between Homo habilis and Homo erectus
By analyzing the provided image, we can identify two major anatomical and dietary differences between these two species:
1. Cranial (Brain) Capacity:
• Homo habilis had a smaller brain capacity, ranging between 650 cc and 800 cc.
• Homo erectus evolved a significantly larger brain capacity of approximately 900 cc.
2. Dietary Habits:
• Homo habilis was primarily herbivorous and probably did not eat meat.
• Homo erectus was omnivorous and probably ate meat.