Life and death of Australopithicus sediba: how a potential ancestor ended up dead in a cave in world heritage site in South Africa (Old ID 20796)
Role
Principal Investigator
Description
In August 2008 the remarkable Malapa fossil site was discovered with remains of the first and only fossils of Australopithecus sediba - a potential direct human ancestor. The fossils are in an exceptional state of preservation, and excavations will start in late 2013, creating a unique opportunity to develop a detailed understanding of the chemical, physical and biological factors that led to burial and fossilisation. This research will focus on the complex interplay between termites, sediment chemistry, landscape conditions and palaeo-climate as contributing factors to fossil preservation. Results will document the environment in which sediba lived and died, and assist future exploration for hominid fossils.
Date
12 Mar 2014 - 31 Dec 2017
Project Type
GRANT
Keywords
Australopithicus sediba;Taphonomy;Geochemistry
Funding Body
Australian Research Council
Amount
256000
Project Team
Eric Roberts;Tom Blenkinsop;Carl Spandler