During what era did Homo habilis primarily exist?

Homo habilis primarily existed during the Pliocene epoch, which spanned from approximately 5.3 million to 2.6 million years ago. This era is significant in the evolutionary timeline as it marks a period of notable climate changes that influenced the development and adaptations of hominins. Homo habilis is often recognized as one of the earliest members of the genus Homo, showcasing evidence of tool use and a more complex form of behavior compared to its predecessors.

The Miocene epoch, while a critical period in primate evolution, primarily predates Homo habilis and is characterized by the diversification of mammals and the emergence of many modern families. In contrast, the Pleistocene epoch is known for the dominance of species such as Homo erectus and later hominins, while the Holocene epoch refers to the current geological epoch, which began after the last ice age, with fully modern humans already present. Understanding the relevance of the Pliocene epoch in the context of Homo habilis helps clarify where this species fits within human evolutionary history.