Question

What is the age of Ardipithecus and what was the environment like?

1) 4.4 million years old, forested
2) 4.4 million years old, grassland
3) 2.5 million years old, forested
4) 2.5 million years old, grassland

Answer 1

Ardipithecus is dated to 4.4 million years ago and was adapted to a forested environment, as suggested by its physical traits and the forested areas where its fossils were found.

Step-by-step explanation:

Ardipithecus, represented by species such as A. ramidus, is dated to about 4.4 million years ago. Fossil evidence suggests that these hominins were adapted to a forested environment, indicating they were bipedal on the ground and potentially quadrupedal in trees. This is evidenced by physical traits such as an opposable big toe and a reduced canine, which differs from the large intimidating canines seen in contemporary African ape males. Furthermore, the fossil record, including remains found in areas that were heavily forested at the time, supports this conclusion. Therefore, the correct answer to the student's question is "1) 4.4 million years old, forested".