Mosaic Nature of H. naledi

Abstract

Homo naledi (“Star Man”) holds a fascinating morphology of primitive and derived traits, and offers more questions than answers as to their true functions. In this paper, I will attempt to discern some answers by first describing H. naledi’s outstanding morphological traits with merit to the researchers who found the specimens, as well as discuss its overarching significance in the field of palaeoanthropology. I will then investigate the theories regarding H. naledi’s behavior dissected through comparisons with other hominins, such as contemporary archaic Homo members, argue for a semi-rock climbing morphology rather than semi-arboreal, provide evidence for a possible one million year old stasis through the lenses of neurobiology and ecology, and finally question how these attributed to this species’ extinction. Although a large portion of this paper is theoretical, it nonetheless stems from evidence directly corresponding to the remains of H. naledi.