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Ancient Ancestor’s Plant-Based Diet Revealed by New Research

1/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

New research in *Science* uncovers that Australopithecus, our ancient ancestor from southern Africa, thrived on a largely plant-based diet, with only occasional meat. By examining nitrogen isotopes in fossilized tooth enamel dating back 3.7 to 3.3 million years, this study reshapes our understanding of early hominins, highlighting their adaptability as crucial for survival.

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Story summary

New research in *Science* uncovers that Australopithecus, our ancient ancestor from southern Africa, thrived on a largely plant-based diet, with only occasional meat. By examining nitrogen isotopes in fossilized tooth enamel dating back 3.7 to 3.3 million years, this study reshapes our understanding of early hominins, highlighting their adaptability as crucial for survival.