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Homo erectus is an extinct species of human that lived from about 1.9 million years ago to around 140,000 years ago, playing a crucial role in the evolutionary history of modern humans. The Homo erectus skull has several distinct features that set it apart from both its predecessors and modern humans:
1. **Shape and Size**: The skull of Homo erectus is longer and lower than that of modern humans, with a more pronounced brow ridge and a less rounded cranium. This shape is sometimes referred to as "low-vaulted" because the top of the skull is flatter.
2. **Cranial Capacity**: While smaller than that of modern humans, the brain size of Homo erectus was larger than earlier hominins. The cranial capacity ranged from about 600 cubic centimeters to over 1,100 cubic centimeters, which indicates a significant increase in brain size over time. This increase is associated with the development of more complex behaviors and tool use.
3. **Brow Ridges**: Homo erectus had very prominent brow ridges, which are the bony projections above the eyes. These ridges provided structural support for the skull and may have had functional implications related to facial expressions or protection of the eyes.
4. **Facial Prognathism**: The face of Homo erectus protrudes more than in modern humans, but less so than in earlier hominins like Australopithecus. This lessening of facial prognathism over time is thought to be related to changes in diet and the advent of cooking, which reduced the need for heavy chewing.
5. **Jaw and Teeth**: The jaws of Homo erectus were robust, with teeth that were smaller than those of their predecessors, which is another indication of dietary changes. The reduction in tooth size continues with the evolution towards modern humans.
6. **Postcranial Skeleton**: While not part of the skull, it's worth noting that Homo erectus was the first hominin to have body proportions similar to modern humans, with longer legs and shorter arms compared to the torso. This adaptation suggests a lifestyle that included a significant amount of bipedal walking or running, possibly as a part of migratory behavior.
The features of the Homo erectus skull reflect adaptations to a lifestyle that included tool use, possibly some form of communication, and ecological changes that required long-distance travel and social coordination. These adaptations represent significant steps towards the physical and behavioral traits of modern humans.
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