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Dissection, MicroCT Scanning and Morphometric Analyses of the Baculum
Published on: March 19, 2017
Morphology of Turkanapithecus kalakolensis from Kenya
R E Leakey1, M G Leakey, A C Walker
1National Museums of Kenya, Nairobi.
American Journal of Physical Anthropology
|July 1, 1988
Summary
Fossil discoveries in Kenya reveal Turkanapithecus kalakolensis, a Miocene hominoid. Analysis of cranial, mandibular, and postcranial elements provides new insights into early hominoid evolution and diversity.
Area of Science:
- Paleoanthropology
- Primate Evolution
- Neogene Paleontology
Background:
- The Miocene epoch was a critical period for hominoid diversification.
- Understanding early hominoids is key to tracing human evolutionary lineage.
- Fossil evidence for early hominoids, particularly from Africa, is sparse.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe and analyze new fossil remains of Turkanapithecus kalakolensis.
- To compare these fossils with other known Miocene hominoids.
- To contribute to the understanding of hominoid evolution during the Miocene.
Main Methods:
- Morphological analysis of fossilized cranium and mandible.
- Association and analysis of associated postcranial elements.
- Comparative osteology with other Miocene hominoid taxa.
Main Results:
- Detailed description of the type specimen of Turkanapithecus kalakolensis, including partial cranium and mandible.
- Description of potentially associated postcranial elements and two additional specimens.
- Comparative analysis indicating unique features and relationships within Miocene hominoids.
Conclusions:
- The described fossils represent significant additions to the known record of Turkanapithecus kalakolensis.
- This collection enhances our understanding of Miocene hominoid diversity and paleoecology.
- Further research on these specimens will refine hominoid phylogenetic reconstructions.
