Footprints reveal that two different species of ancient hominins coexisted in the same area.

Ancient footprints found in Kenya show evidence that two different species of human relatives, Homo erectus and Paranthropus boisei, walked on the same ground simultaneously 1.5 million years ago. The footprints were discovered near a lake in northern Kenya and are distinct in shape and strike patterns, indicating two different species left them. The discovery raises questions about the relationship and interactions between the two species. Homo erectus had a humanlike anatomy, used stone tools, and had a varied diet, surviving for over 1 million years after the footprints were made. Paranthropus boisei had smaller brains, massive chewing muscles, and large molar teeth, likely evolving to eat tough foods. The footprints were found at a fossil hotspot in Koobi Fora, with sediment protecting them from cracking and preserving them in the geologic record. The researchers believe the two species were able to coexist in the area due to their different diets, although competition for resources is also possible. The study adds to the understanding that ancient human relatives likely interacted and coexisted, highlighting the complexity and messiness of human evolution with various side branches and species like Paranthropus boisei representing an evolutionary dead end. The research emphasizes the importance of studying ancient human interactions and provides insight into the evolutionary process leading to modern humans.

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