Homo sapiens sapiens

Definition

Homo sapiens sapiens is the subspecies of Homo sapiens that includes all modern human beings. Distinguished by advanced cognitive abilities and complex social structures, they emerged roughly 300,000 years ago in Africa.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Homo sapiens sapiens have a larger brain volume compared to other primates, averaging about 1,300 cubic centimeters.
2. They exhibit bipedalism, which allows for upright walking and has influenced skeletal structure.
3. The development of sophisticated tools and use of language are key evolutionary traits.
4. Genetic evidence suggests they interbred with other hominins like Neanderthals and Denisovans.
5. Their ability to adapt to a variety of environments has led to their spread across the globe.

Review Questions

• What are two key physical traits that distinguish Homo sapiens sapiens from other primates?
• How does bipedalism benefit Homo sapiens sapiens in terms of evolution?
• What evidence supports the idea that Homo sapiens sapiens interbred with other hominin species?

Related terms

Neanderthals: An extinct species or subspecies of archaic humans who lived until about 40,000 years ago and shared some genetic overlap with modern humans.

Bipedalism: The ability to walk on two legs, which is a defining characteristic of modern humans and their ancestors.

Cognitive evolution: The development of intelligence and complex brain functions over time in human ancestors.