Replica of the Paranthropus boisei Skull (KNM-ER 406) Description – Materials and Creation Process: 3D-printed from durable plastic (PETG/ABS) using a detailed digital scan of the reconstructed KNM-ER 406 skull. The model reproduces all key anatomical features of this "hyper-robust" Paranthropus, including the massive sagittal crest and "dished" facial structure. Hand-painted to mimic the natural mineral patina of the fossil. Dimensions: Full-scale, life-sized replica: ~181 mm (length) × 150 mm (width) × 185 mm (height) / 7.13" (length) × 5.91" (width) × 7.28" (height) Jaw: Lower jaw – missing (matching the condition of the KNM-ER 406 specimen) Significance in Anthropology:
Dating: ~1.7 million years ago
Discovered: 1970, Koobi Fora (Lake Turkana, Kenya)
Importance:
Classic representative of East African robust Paranthropus
Cranial capacity ~510 cm³ (larger than P. robustus)
Demonstrates extreme dietary specialization for tough foods
Features:
Anatomical Adaptations:
Massive molars (4x larger than modern humans’)
Broad zygomatic arches for powerful chewing muscles
Thickest dental enamel among hominids
Debated Aspects:
Taxonomic status (Paranthropus vs. Australopithecus)
