section_path: Key topics by field: archaeological and biological/Palaeoanthropology
section_name: Palaeoanthropology
paragraph_text: Palaeoanthropology
  
  Paleoanthropology combines the disciplines of paleontology and physical anthropology. It is the study of ancient humans, as found in fossil hominid evidence such as petrifacted bones and footprints. Genetics and morphology of specimens are crucially important to this field. Markers on specimens, such as enamel fractures and dental decay on teeth, can also give insight into the behaviour and diet of past populations.