NCEA Level 3 Biology – Human Evolution (AS91606) Practice Exam

Paranthropus is a genus of hominins known for its distinctive evolutionary adaptations that include massive teeth and a robust jaw structure. These traits are closely linked to their diet, which likely consisted of hard and tough plant materials. The large molars and thick enamel helped them process these foods effectively, providing insights into their ecological niche during their existence. This specialization in dental morphology is a key characteristic that sets Paranthropus apart from other hominins, illustrating the adaptive strategies they developed in response to their environmental challenges and dietary needs. This makes the connection to massive teeth and jaw a defining trait of the Paranthropus lineage in the context of human evolution.