Final answer:
The highest hominoid taxonomic diversity occurs during the Miocene epoch with a rich variety of primate species. Throughout the Pliocene and into the Neolithic age, hominins develop bipedalism and cultural behaviors. Homo sapiens eventually become the only surviving species due to the 'out of Africa' migration and genetic evidence supporting this theory.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hominoid Taxonomic Diversity During Epochs: The hominoid taxonomic diversity is considered to be highest during the Miocene epoch. It is during this time that the first fossil apes, such as Proconsul, emerge. This period is marked by a significant increase in the variety of primate species. As we move into the Pliocene epoch, evidence of bipedal hominins becomes apparent in the fossil record, as is the use of stone tools. However, it is notably the Neolithic (Agricultural Age) when human culture and technology begin to develop rapidly with the establishment of permanent settlements and the domestication of animals. Diverse physical characteristics are evident in the species from these epochs, including longer legs, changes in spinal curvature, and the development of arches in the feet. These changes are linked with the transition to bipedalism. During these times, multiple hominin species existed concurrently, including probable ancestors and 'cousins' of modern humans, such as Neanderthals and Denisovans. Homo habilis, known as 'handy man' due to the association with stone tools, and Homo ergaster are just two examples of species that lived around 2.5 to 1.8 million years ago. Ultimately, the diversity of human species declined, leaving only Homo sapiens as the sole surviving species from this once-diverse taxonomic group. The 'out of Africa' model suggests that modern humans emerged first in Africa, then spread worldwide, replacing other hominin species. Fossil and genetic evidence has supported this model over the 'multiregional evolution model'.