Hominins adaptations to upright locomotion (bipedalism)

11 important questions on Hominins adaptations to upright locomotion (bipedalism)

What are the advantages of bipedalism?

  • Food is more easily carried
  • Allows living from a home base
  • Bipedal hominins had a better view over their surroundings and could more easily spot danger
  • Energetic advantage for bipedal strolling
  • Avoid over heating by strong sunshine (better regulation of body temperature)

What are anatomical traits associated with bipedalism?


  • šCalcaneus (heelbone) extended backwards, toe bone straightened, small hallux abduction
  • šLarger valgus angle of the knee joint
  • šPelvis tilted, makes an angle with the spine; pubis to the front, ilial blade bended backwards; functional changes in muscles
  • šLateral orientation of shoulder joint
  • šPosition foramen magnum in basicranium

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What are changes in the pelvis that are related to bipedalism?


  • Pelvis is shortened and wider
  • Ilium is shorter and tilted backwards
  • Ischium makes a shorter bend
  • Pubis is more directed frontally
  • Distance between left and right acetabulum is larger

What is the difference between abductor and adductor muscles?

Abductor muscles bring a limb to the body, adductor muscles push a limb away from the body.

What is the axial turn and when is it used?

The axial turn is used when delivering a baby. The baby passes the upper part of the pelvis sideways, then it is turned 90 degrees to be born with the head facing down.

Is the axial turn specific for Homo sapiens?

No also neanderthalers are thought to have used this "birth method".

What are adaptations in the femur and knee of Homo sapiens?

  • Inclination angle
  • Valgus angle
  • Obturator groove becomes smaller

What can you tell about the footprins of Laetoli?


  • Found in Tanzania
  • Footprint in volcanic ash an adult and a young individual
  • 3.7 million years old!
  • Solid proof for early bipedalism
  • Attributed to Australopithecus afarensis

What is the hallux abduction?

The hallux abduction is the angle between the toes (de grote teen vs de andere 4 tenen).

What are the disadvantages of bipedalism?

  • Obstetric problems
  • Back pain

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