Who was the first hominid known to have an average brain size over 1000cc?

The first hominid known to have an average brain size exceeding 1000cc is Homo erectus. This species, which lived approximately 1.9 million to about 110,000 years ago, shows significant evolutionary advancements, particularly in brain size and morphology when compared to earlier hominids.

Homo erectus had a brain capacity that averaged around 900 to 1,100cc, marking a notable increase from the smaller brain sizes seen in its predecessors, such as Homo habilis, whose brain sizes ranged from about 510cc to 600cc. This larger brain size in Homo erectus is closely associated with various developments, including improved tool-making skills, the use of fire, and the capacity for more complex social structures and behaviors.

The evolutionary adaptations related to brain size in Homo erectus are seen as crucial for the survival and eventual success of the species, influencing later hominids, including Homo sapiens and Homo neanderthalensis. Thus, the identification of Homo erectus as the first hominid with an average brain size over 1000cc highlights a significant moment in human evolution, particularly in terms of cognitive abilities and social complexity.