Ape-like locomotor adaptations in the radius of the stem catarrhine <i>Pliobates</i> shed light on hominoid evolution.

ABSTRACT: The 11.6. Ma pliopithecoid Pliobates was initially misinterpreted as a stem hominoid owing to multiple apelike postcranial features. Using 3D geometric morphometrics, we compare its radial shape with that of extant and extinct catarrhines to make locomotor inferences. The round and beveled radial head of Pliobates resembles that of modern apes, which we interpret as functionally related to efficient forearm rotation. This contrasts with its more plesiomorphic distal radius and proximal ulna, suggesting that Pliobates was more adapted for climbing than forelimb-dominated suspension and unable to perform gibbon-like ricochetal brachiation. Our results illustrate the mosaic and stepwise evolution of the catarrhine elbow and support the view that an apelike proximal radial

SUBMITTER: Arias-Martorell J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12857360 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature