Deck 5: Primates in Evolution

Question 1

When would the first primate have been in existence?

A) 63 myr ago
B) 40 myr ago
C) 80 myr ago
D) 125 myr ago

Answer 1

A

Question 2

Describe the three-tiered social/political system of the hamadryas baboons.

Answer 2

The three-tiered social/political system of the hamadryas baboons consists of the harem, the clan, and the band.

The harem is the smallest unit and consists of one dominant male, several females, and their offspring. The dominant male is responsible for protecting and leading the harem, and he also has exclusive mating rights with the females.

The clan is the next level of organization and consists of several harems. The dominant males of the harems within a clan form alliances and work together to defend their territory and resources. They also engage in social interactions and alliances with other dominant males in neighboring clans.

The band is the largest level of organization and consists of several clans. Bands are led by the most dominant and experienced males, who are responsible for leading the entire group and making decisions about movement and resource allocation. Bands also engage in interactions with other bands, including competition for resources and territory.

Overall, the three-tiered social/political system of the hamadryas baboons is characterized by complex social relationships, alliances, and competition for resources, with dominant males playing a key role in leading and protecting their respective groups.

Question 3

Differentiate between the two dental patterns in fossil and modern monkeys and apes. What would identify a particular tooth?

Answer 3

Fossil monkeys and apes typically have a dental pattern known as the "dental arcade," where the teeth are arranged in a parallel row. This is in contrast to modern monkeys and apes, which have a "Y-5" dental pattern, where the molars have five cusps arranged in a Y shape.

To identify a particular tooth, one would look at the shape and arrangement of the cusps, as well as the overall size and structure of the tooth. Additionally, the presence or absence of certain features, such as a diastema (gap between the teeth) or a specific wear pattern, can also help identify a particular tooth.

Question 4

You are going to make a video of the first primate group: what five behaviors would you be sure to have them

Question 5

There are three candidates for the position of first hominid. Where and when did they exist and why are they only candidates?

Question 6

Locomotion differs more for Primates than any other order. Write a sentence describing all you can with one example of a species for each mode.

Question 7

Primates have only one trait that is universal but 14 that most have, Discuss any five of these that most have.

Question 8

There are three recent fossils that are reasonably dated, so that any could be the earliest hominid. Discuss these three by date, place, and why they may be the first hominid.