Hominidés

Hominidés is a term used to refer to members of the family Hominidae, which includes humans and their extinct bipedal relatives. This family is part of the larger primate order and is characterized by certain anatomical and behavioral traits that distinguish them from other apes. The fossil record provides evidence of numerous hominid species that have lived and gone extinct throughout evolutionary history. These extinct relatives, often referred to as hominins, exhibit a range of characteristics that show a gradual transition towards modern human anatomy and behavior.

Key characteristics of hominids include bipedalism, or the ability to walk upright on two legs, which is a defining feature of the group. Other notable traits include a larger brain size relative to body mass compared to other primates, the development of complex tool use, and sophisticated social structures. The evolutionary lineage leading to modern humans is complex, with various species overlapping in time and geographical distribution. Studying these extinct hominids helps us understand the process of human evolution, including adaptations to different environments and the development of key human traits.

Current understanding places humans (Homo sapiens) as the sole surviving species within the Hominidae family. However, research continues to uncover new fossil evidence and refine our understanding of the relationships between different hominid species and the timeline of our evolutionary past. The study of hominids is a dynamic field that draws on paleontology, archaeology, genetics, and anthropology.