Scientists have long debated the role of meat consumption in human evolution. New research provides direct evidence that early human ancestor Australopithecus had a plant-based diet, with very little or no meat. The study analyzed tooth enamel from seven individuals dating back 3.7-3.3 million years and found that they relied on a vegetarian diet.
The discovery challenges the long-held assumption that meat was essential for Australopithecus’ brain development and overall evolution. Instead, it suggests that plant-based eating may have played a more significant role in their lifestyle. The study’s lead author, geochemist Tina Lüdecke, notes that occasional meat consumption is possible, but not as prevalent as previously thought.
The researchers analyzed fossilized molars from South Africa and found that the nitrogen ratio aligned closely with herbivorous animals, not carnivores. This suggests that Australopithecus may have relied on plants for sustenance rather than animal protein.
The findings provide critical insights into human evolution and bipedal locomotion. Despite having smaller brains than modern humans, Australopithecus was still capable of complex behaviors like tool use and social interaction. The study’s results may shed light on the transition from a plant-based diet to one that includes meat consumption, which could have driven further adaptations in the human lineage.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/science/meat-was-not-menu-human-ancestor-australopithecus-2025-01-16