Morphology and environment in some fossil Hominoids and Pedetids (Mammalia)

Fossil evidence from South Africa challenges the 'savannah hypothesis,' revealing that early hominids evolved in more vegetated environments, not open grasslands. The study highlights mixed adaptations for bipedalism and arboreal locomotion in these fossils, suggesting a complex interplay between morphology and habitat. Similarly, fossil rodents (Pedetidae) from East and Southern Africa exhibit distinct springing adaptations linked to forested versus open, drier habitats. Robust, heavy-jumping species thrived in forests, while smaller, gracile forms adapted to grassy landscapes during desertification. This research demonstrates that skeletal morphology reflects environmental pressures, offering insights into evolutionary patterns in both hominoids and rodents.

Senut, B. (2015). Morphology and environment in some fossil Hominoids and Pedetids (Mammalia). Journal of Anatomy, 228(4), 700–715. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/joa.12427