Homo erectus, half scale skull
When Dr. Eugene Dubois discovered the first Homo erectus fossils in Java in 1891, he named the species Pithecanthropus erectus.
The name was changed to Homo erectus after scientists realized that P. erectus and some other similar finds were actually a type of early human.
Many specimens are known at this time, 40 in Java alone.
Many experts feel that the species originated in Africa approximately 2 million years ago as Homo ergaster (sometimes also called H. erectus), and dispersed in Asia and possibly Europe - over the next millions years.
Crude tools have been found in association with the remains of H. erectus and they may have also used fire.
Adults were thick-boned with massive jaws and heavy brow ridges.
Their brains were smaller than either Neanderthal or modern man, but nearly twice as big as a large Australopithecine.
It is presumed by many scientists that H. erectus or H. ergaster was a direct ancestor to modern humans.
Model size: 9.5(L) x 6.4(W) x 7.6(H) cm
Notes:
- Half scale in three dimensions equates to one eighth scale in volume so models may appear smaller than expected
- This model may also be purchased as part of a set of seven half-scale skulls
- There are several full-scale H. erectus and H. ergaster skulls available: BH-028, BH-038, BH-018, BH-011 and BH-012
