Explain the evolutionary relationship between humans h o m i n i n s, primates and h o m i n i d s. Explain the answer using the words diverge and common ancestor and describe how each group of organisms is different
Humans, hominins, primates, and hominids all belong to the same larger group known as primates. Primates are a diverse group of mammals that includes monkeys, apes, and humans.
Hominids are a subgroup of primates that includes modern humans, extinct human species, and their immediate ancestors. Hominins are a more specific subgroup of hominids that includes modern humans and their ancestors after the split from the common ancestor with chimpanzees.
The evolutionary relationship between humans, hominins, primates, and hominids can be traced back to a common ancestor that lived millions of years ago. At some point in the evolutionary history of primates, hominids diverged from the rest of the group and eventually gave rise to hominins and, eventually, modern humans.
Each group of organisms is different in terms of anatomical features, behavior, and evolutionary history. For example, primates in general are characterized by features such as grasping hands and feet, forward-facing eyes, and relatively large brains compared to other mammals. Hominids and hominins share these characteristics but also exhibit distinct features that set them apart from other primates, such as bipedal locomotion (walking on two legs) and larger brains relative to body size.
In summary, humans, hominins, primates, and hominids share a common evolutionary ancestor but have diverged over time to become distinct groups with unique characteristics and adaptations.