Question

What did the discovery of Ardi suggest about the kind of habitat in which bipedality evolved? How do we know?

A) Bipedality evolved in dense forests. This is indicated by Ardi's grasping big toe, suitable for climbing trees.
B) Bipedality evolved in open savannas. This is indicated by Ardi's flat, broad feet, suitable for walking long distances.
C) Bipedality evolved in wetlands. This is indicated by Ardi's webbed feet, suitable for swimming.
D) Bipedality evolved in mountainous regions. This is indicated by Ardi's strong legs, suitable for climbing steep slopes.

Answer 1

The discovery of Ardi suggests that bipedality evolved in environments with both open areas and dense forests, as indicated by Ardi's skeletal adaptations that enable both climbing and bipedal walking.

Step-by-step explanation:

The discovery of Ardipithecus ramidus (Ardi) suggests that bipedality evolved in a habitat with both open land and areas of dense forest. This conclusion is drawn from Ardi's morphological features, such as the grasping big toe, which would be suitable for climbing trees, indicating an ability to live in both arboreal and terrestrial environments. Moreover, the pelvis and foot structure show adaptations for bipedal movement, suggesting that Ardi could walk upright. The discovery was made in what had been relatively heavily forested environments, providing context for the habitat in which bipedality may have evolved.

Therefore, the correct option indicating the type of habitat in which bipedality evolved, based on Ardi's anatomical features, is: A) Bipedality evolved in dense forests. This is supported by the structural traits of Ardi that facilitated movement in both trees and on the ground, such as the opposable big toe.