Mojokerto child

Pithecanthropus modjokertensis Tjokro Handojo

Mojokerto child refers to the fossilized skull of a Homo erectus juvenile, an early human species, discovered near Mojokerto, East Java, Indonesia. The discovery of the Mojokerto child has been pivotal in understanding human evolution, particularly in Southeast Asia. The skull is estimated to be around 1.8 million years old, making it one of the oldest hominin fossils found in the region.

Discovery

The Mojokerto child skull was discovered in 1936 by Andojo, a local man, and later studied by anthropologist Ralph von Koenigswald. The site of the discovery, initially near the village of Perning, has been a significant location for paleoanthropological research in Indonesia. The find was notable for its well-preserved condition, despite the age, providing invaluable insights into the early stages of human development and migration patterns.

Significance

The Mojokerto child is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it represents one of the earliest examples of Homo erectus outside Africa, supporting theories of early human migration out of Africa and into Asia. Secondly, the age of the fossil, determined through various dating techniques, including uranium-series and argon-argon dating, suggests that Homo erectus reached Southeast Asia much earlier than previously thought.

The morphology of the skull provides evidence of the growth patterns and physical development of early humans. The Mojokerto child's skull features, such as the shape and size of the braincase, have been compared to other Homo erectus specimens, contributing to a broader understanding of the species' variation and evolution.

Controversy

The exact age of the Mojokerto child has been the subject of debate among scientists. Initial estimates placed the skull at less than one million years old. However, subsequent studies and more advanced dating methods have pushed the age back to approximately 1.8 million years. This discrepancy has led to discussions about the timeline of human migration and settlement in Asia.

Impact on Paleoanthropology

The discovery of the Mojokerto child has had a profound impact on the field of paleoanthropology. It has provided a critical piece of evidence for the study of early human life and has helped to fill gaps in the fossil record of Southeast Asia. The Mojokerto child continues to be a subject of research, with studies focusing on its age, development, and what it can tell us about the environment and conditions of early human habitats.

See Also

• Homo erectus
• Human evolution
• Paleoanthropology
• Early human migrations