The Biogeographic Context of Homonin Evolution in Eastern Africa

Dr John Rowan, University of Cambridge, on "The Biogeographic Context of Homonin Evolution in Eastern Africa." Abstract: Eastern Africa preserves the most complete record of human evolution anywhere in the world but we have little knowledge of how long-term biogeographic dynamics in the region influenced the diversity and distribution of hominin species. In this seminar, I will discuss recent efforts to reconstruct the long-term biogeographic history of eastern Africa using spatial beta diversity analyses of late Cenozoic mammal fossil records from the East African Rift System (Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania). These analyses reveal major biogeographic transitions, such as long-term biotic homogenization (increasing compositional similarity) of the region’s mammal faunas over the last 6 Myr, and their likely environmental drivers. Because hominins were undoubtedly influenced by many of the same factors as other eastern African mammals, this newly developed biogeographic context provides a fresh perspective on the links between environmental and human evolutionary histories. Hosted by PhD students in Archaeology at the University of Liverpool. Talk given on 8th May 2025. For more information about the programme, find us on Bluesky at @liverpoolevoanth.bsky.social or email us at [email protected]. Disclaimer: The information contained in the multimedia content (“Video Content”) posted represents the views and opinions of the original creators of such Video Content and does not necessarily represent the views or opinions of the Department of Archaeology, Classics and Egyptology, University of Liverpool. The mere appearance of Video Content on the Site does not constitute an endorsement by the Department or its affiliates of such Video Content. The Video Content has been made available for informational and educational purposes only. The Department does not make any representation or warranties with respect to the accuracy, applicability, fitness or completeness of the Video Content, nor of the performance, effectiveness or applicability of any sites listed or linked to in any Video Content.