Anatomy
Habitual biped with long arms, curved finger bones, a small brain and a mixed terrestrial–arboreal body plan.
COMPREHENSIVE INTERACTIVE REPORT · High
Australopithecus afarensis
Lucy’s species3.9–2.9 million years ago · Eastern Africa
Current synthesis
One of the best-sampled early hominins, represented by Lucy, the Dikika child, numerous jaws and the Laetoli footprints.
Ecology & food
Occupied changing woodland, bushland and grassland mosaics.
Technology
Possible associations with very early butchery remain debated; no exclusive industry.
Clothing evidence
No archaeological evidence of clothing. Reconstruction is shown without garments.
Behavior & social evidence
Footprints and juvenile remains offer limited clues to group movement and development.
Relationships
A plausible ancestral-grade population near later Australopithecus, Paranthropus and Homo branches.
Controversies
How much climbing persisted and whether all regional variation belongs to one species.
What reaches forward
Provides the clearest early demonstration that upright walking preceded large brains.
SOURCE DESK