Australopithecus afarensis skull fossil. This is one of the best-known early human species, with remains discovered from over 300 individuals. They inhabited East Africa during the Pliocene period, which lasted from to million years ago. A. afarensis exhibited both ape and human characteristics, including a flat nose, a strong lower jaw, and long, powerful arms. Their diet primarily consisted of plant-based foods.

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Photo credit: © PHILIPPE PSAILA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
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