Homo

Definition

Homo is a genus within the family Hominidae that includes modern humans and their closest extinct relatives. It is characterized by significant brain size and complex tool usage.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The genus Homo first appeared approximately 2.8 million years ago in Africa.
2. Homo habilis, one of the earliest species, is known for its use of simple stone tools.
3. Homo erectus was the first to leave Africa and spread across Eurasia.
4. Neanderthals (Homo neanderthalensis) coexisted with early Homo sapiens and interbred with them.
5. Modern humans (Homo sapiens) have highly developed cognitive abilities and are the only surviving species of this genus.

Review Questions

• When did the genus Homo first appear?
• Which species of Homo was known for using simple stone tools?
• What significant evolutionary step is attributed to Homo erectus?

Related terms

Australopithecus: A genus of hominins that preceded Homo and exhibited both ape-like and human-like characteristics.

Bipedalism: The ability to walk on two legs, a key adaptation in hominid evolution.

Cognitive Abilities: Higher-level mental processes such as thinking, reasoning, and problem-solving, which are highly developed in Homo sapiens.