Paleoanthropological Research in Southern Ethiopia

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This project was primarily based on field and laboratory research in Ethiopia, with the aim of 1) recovering homnind, faunal and artifact remains from the early Pleistocene deposits of Konso, and 2) discussing their significance in the interpretation of hominid evolution and adaptation. In the 94 and 95 seasons, we have conducted 189 days of research, the results of which are summarized below.Geological work consisted of 1) establishing the chronostratigraphic framework of the study area, and 2) providing support to archeological excavations. In two field seasons, approximately 360 sections were logged, 300 tuff samples taken for laboratory comparisons, 15 tuff samples taken for Ar/Ar dating, and 32 samples (clay, calcite, diatomite) taken for preliminary paleoenvironmental evaluations. The fossiliferous early Pleistoene sequence is over 200 meters thick, with at least 26 different tuffs occurring within the combined section. We have preliminary Ar/Ar dates ranging from 1.3 to 1.9 myr.Paleontological collecting were undertaken primarily at 7 of the 17 localities defined by the project. Over 4000 identifiable specimens were recovered, including 7 hominid specimens. Eight orders, 21 families and at least 34 genera are represented in the mammalian assemblage. These faunal remains can mostly be allocated to 3 stratigraphic zones. The assemblage from the lower strata contains archaic species known from around 2 myr, while the mid to upper levels yield taxa characteristic of East African sites of circa 1.5 myr. Further biochronological analysis is forthcoming.Archeological excavations were conducted at KGA4, KGA8 and KGA10. Excavations at KGA10 focussed on sampling multiple locations of a single horizon in a landscape approach. Excavations at KGA4 and KGA8 were intended to expose rich early Acheulean assemblages. Both activities will be continued to further obtain primary data relevant to the understanding of early hominid behavior.