Final answer:
The diversity of hominin species during the Pliocene can be attributed to changes in climate, the connection of landmasses, and the emergence of new behaviors and adaptations. These factors created favorable conditions for speciation and evolution.
Step-by-step explanation:
The diversity of hominin species during the Pliocene can be attributed to a combination of factors. One of the main factors is the changing climate during this period, which resulted in the formation of new habitats and ecological niches. The Pliocene epoch also witnessed the connection of previously isolated landmasses, allowing for increased migration and genetic exchange between different hominin populations.Furthermore, the emergence of new adaptation strategies and behaviors, such as tool use and increased social interactions, may have contributed to the diversification of hominin species. These factors, along with the availability of ample resources, likely created favorable conditions for the speciation and evolution of multiple hominin species during the Pliocene.