Dental metrics of Sahelanthropus tchadensis: A comparative analysis with apes and Plio-Pleistocene hominins

Author(s)

Neves, Walter ; Valota, Leticia ; Monteiro, Clovis

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: S. Afr. j. sci.; v. 120, n. 7-8, p. 4-pg., 2024-07-01.

Abstract

Since discovery and description of the species, Sahelanthropus tchadensis has been at the centre of a great discussion around its classification as a hominin - the first of our lineage - or an ape. Many studies have been conducted in order to clarify this question, especially studies based on the morphology of the cranium and the post-cranial remains. In this study, we analysed the posterior dentition of S. tchadensis in relation to those of other hominins and chimpanzees, using a multivariate comparative metric analysis. Our results suggest that the posterior dentition of the Chad material lies in the range of well-established early Plio-Pleistocene hominins, supporting its classification as part of the hominin lineage. Significance: center dot The subject investigated in this study is important to the understanding of the first steps of human evolution. center dot Much has been discussed about this Chadian species. Some believe it is the first hominin, others believe it is an ape. center dot This study shows that the posterior dentition of S. tchadensis does not preclude it from being a hominin. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 23/06224-0 - The interaction between neanderthals and modern humans in the Balcans: a paleoanthropological approach.
• Grantee: Walter Alves Neves
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 23/15632-4 - The study of dental morphology as a strategy for understanding human evolution: a comparative analysis
• Grantee: Leticia Sartori Valota
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation