Asked by Edwin Juarez on May 16, 2024

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You are studying a fossilized primate skull and notice that the foramen magnum is located at the center of the base of the skull. You conclude that the skull belonged to a:

A) gibbon.
B) quadruped.
C) brachiator.
D) bipedal primate.
E) knuckle walker.

Foramen Magnum

The large opening in the base of the skull through which the spinal cord passes, connecting the brain to the spinal column.

Bipedal Primate

A member of the primate group that is capable of walking upright on two legs, a trait that distinguishes humans and their ancestors.

  • Identify the structural anatomy of primates, focusing on characteristics such as the foramen magnum that suggest types of movement.
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Isaias GutierrezMay 21, 2024
Final Answer :
D
Explanation :
The location of the foramen magnum at the center of the base of the skull is a key indicator of bipedalism. This positioning allows the skull to balance on the vertebral column in an upright posture, which is characteristic of bipedal primates.