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Human Population. BIO 103 Human Ecology Dr. Phoebe Smith. History of human evolution. Homo habilis ~3 mya in Africa Use of simple, stone tools Homo erectus ~1 mya in Europe & Asia Homo sapiens ~1.3 mya in Africa ‘ Out of Africa’ theory. Hunter-Gatherers.
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Human Population BIO 103 Human Ecology Dr. Phoebe Smith
History of human evolution • Homo habilis • ~3 mya in Africa • Use of simple, stone tools • Homo erectus • ~1 mya in Europe & Asia • Homo sapiens • ~1.3 mya in Africa • ‘Out of Africa’ theory
Hunter-Gatherers • Consumed about 0.1% of biological production in the ecosystem
Agricultural Revolution • Ocurred ~12,000 years ago in Middle East • Led to domestication of plants (crops) and animals • Increased percentage of biological production consumed • Increased carrying capacity
Largest populations in river valleys of India and China • 14th c.--plague reduces world population by 25% • 16th c.--European colonialism and trade
Industrial Revolution • 18th c. • Agriculture: wheat, corn, potatoes, sweet potatoes and rice • Technology increased production and carrying capacity • By the 19th c., large families (for labor) were no longer necessary
Green Revolution • ~40 years ago • High-yield crop varieties (rice, wheat and corn) • What are the environmental effects of fertilizers, pesticides, etc.?
Population regulation • Are there cultural practices that limit population increase? • Territoriality • Polygamy • Infanticide • Breast-feeding
Consequences of population explosion • Quality of life • Lack of food • Environmental refugees migrate to cities from rural areas • Competition for resources • War in Iraq • May be controlled • Birth control • Education