ABSTRACT
This chapter purposes to make some general comments on functional features of the morphology of some Miocene hominoid postcrania and on possible positional capabilities consistent. Similarities to and differences from features of Miocene species evident in the postcrania of groups of living higher primates will be made purely in terms of function. The morphology of the medial and lateral sides of the joint provides stabilization against medially or laterally directed forces throughout the flexion-extension range. The morphology of the wrist and to a lesser extent the hand of P. africanus has received considerable attention. The general consensus is that to the extent that quadrupedal progression was used, that quadrupedalism was palmigrade. The morphology is a conservative one, and as it relates to quadrupedal progression, it is expressed in predominantly parasagittal limb movement.
