Question

Match the taxonomic terms below with the descriptions that follow. Options may be used once, more than once, or not at all.

41) Which of the following species was the first to have been adapted for long-distance bipedalism?
A) H. heidelbergensis
B) H. erectus
C) H. ergaster
D) H. habilis
E) H. sapiens

Answer 1

The species first adapted for long-distance bipedalism was Homo erectus, which had a broader pelvis, longer legs, and arched feet for efficient walking.

Step-by-step explanation:

The first species to have been adapted for long-distance bipedalism is Homo erectus. Based on fossil evidence, Homo erectus appeared around 1.9 million to 1.8 million years ago and showed significant anatomical changes conducive to efficient bipedal locomotion, including a broader pelvis, longer legs, and arched feet. While early hominins, such as Australopithecus, exhibited bipedalism, it was with Homo erectus that we see the full adaptation for sustained, long-distance bipedal walking.

Moreover, Homo erectus was distinct from earlier hominins with a larger brain and from the neck up, they possessed notable differences from modern humans, such as larger jaws and teeth, along with a sloping forehead. Consequently, the correct species matched to the description of being the first adapted for long-distance bipedalism is option B) H. erectus.