At Least 60,000 Years Ago, the “Hobbit” of Flores Walked Upright With Human-Like Hips, Despite One Unusual Pelvic Bone

At least 60,000 years ago, the "Hobbit" from Flores, Homo floresiensis, ambled upright with hip mechanics resembling modern humans, according to a new study. The research examined the LB 1 specimen, likely a female, who stood about 3 feet 6 inches tall and left behind fragmented hip bones in Liang Bua cave on Indonesia's Flores island.

Early descriptions of LB 1's upper pelvis resembled those of more ancient human ancestors, but this study found her pelvis more similar to Homo species than previously thought. All but one measurement of her pelvis fell within the range found in modern humans, indicating a human-like form of upright walking. The team reconstructed a 3D model from micro-CT scans of LB 1's pelvis and compared it to other primates and fossil individuals.

LB 1's iliac flare—how far the upper hip bones spread away from the body—fell within the range of other Homo members and even some Pleistocene Homo specimens. However, her ischium—the section extending below and behind the hip socket—stood out, being long for her body size and longer than in most modern humans and other fossils.

This longer ischium might suggest a more flexed hip position or efficient movement in trees, but it could also be a normal variation within Homo. LB 1's relatively short thighbones, small hip joints, and long, curved toes imply a body less suited for fast running or long-distance travel, despite the fact she walked upright. The researchers plan to reconstruct the complete pelvis to gain more insight into how her bones functioned together, shedding light on Homo floresiensis' place in the human family tree.