Final answer:
The question involves the classification of Homo antecessor, a hominin, which is debated to be a species or subspecies, and its ancestral links to Homo sapiens and Neanderthals, focusing on taxonomy and phylogeny.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the classification of a certain hominin, specifically whether it should be considered a species or subspecies, and its ancestral relationships to other hominins. Homo antecessor is the subject of dispute referred to in the question. There is a scientific discussion about whether H. antecessor should be classified as a distinct species or as a subspecies of another hominin species. Moreover, theories suggest that H. antecessor may be an ancestor of modern humans (Homo sapiens) and Neanderthals (Homo neanderthalensis). Classification is an essential part of taxonomy, which organizes living organisms into hierarchical categories based on shared characteristics and phylogenetic relationships.
As for the Check Your Understanding Questions, 1. The genus and species of modern humans is Homo sapiens. Other human species, such as Homo neanderthalensis and Homo erectus, have become extinct. The reasons for their extinction are varied, including potential competition with Homo sapiens, climate change, and other ecological factors.