Hominids Foraging in a Complex Landscape: Could Homo ergaster and Australopithecus boisei Meet Their Calories Requirements?

Abstract

In this paper we present results of an agent-based model of foraging of hominids. The model represents foraging activities in a landscape that is based on detailed measurements of food availability in the modem East African environments. These current landscapes are used as a model for the environment of the hominids one million years ago. We use the model to explore possible rankings of food preferences for different types of hominids (Homo ergaster and Australopithecus boisei) in different types of semi-arid landscapes. We let the agents adjust their preferences to maximize their calories intake and show that A. boisei could not meet its calories requirements in different landscapes.