Asked by Aaron Trudeau on Apr 24, 2024
Verified
What is the most likely reason for the decrease in hominin hairiness compared to apes?
A) to limit infectious disease spread
B) to improve hygiene
C) to regulate temperature and allow sweat to evaporate
D) to allow skin to absorb sunlight, for vitamin D synthesis
E) to save energy that hair production requires
Hominin Hairiness
Refers to the coverage and distribution of body hair in human ancestors and close relatives, impacting various aspects like thermal regulation and social signaling.
Infectious Disease
Diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi; they can be spread from person to person or through vectors.
- Elucidate the significance of diet and environmental influences in the evolutionary process of vertebrates.
Verified Answer
BH
Briana Hambrick8 days ago
Final Answer :
C
Explanation :
The decrease in hominin hairiness is most likely due to the need to regulate temperature and allow sweat to evaporate. As humans evolved to become bipedal and more active, a thick coat of hair would have become a hindrance to losing heat generated by physical activity. Sweating allowed hominins to release excess heat and reduce body temperature, but this would not have been as effective with a thick coat of hair. Therefore, the loss of hair allowed hominins to regulate their body temperature more effectively.
Learning Objectives
- Elucidate the significance of diet and environmental influences in the evolutionary process of vertebrates.