Which species is famously known as "Lucy"?

The species famously known as "Lucy" is Australopithecus afarensis. Lucy represents one of the most significant discoveries in paleoanthropology because she provides key evidence of early human bipedalism. Discovered in 1974 in Ethiopia, Lucy's skeletal structure, including her pelvis and leg bones, indicates adaptations for upright walking, a major milestone in human evolution.

Australopithecus afarensis lived approximately 3.9 to 2.9 million years ago and is considered a direct ancestor of modern humans. The name "Lucy" was derived from the Beatles song "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds," which was played by the research team during the celebration of her discovery. She stands as a critical example of how early hominins adapted to their environment, showcasing traits that are essential for understanding the evolutionary lineage leading to Homo sapiens.