Which is direct ancestor of Homo sapiens ?

Options

A. Homo erectus
B. Homo sapiens neanderthalensis
C. Ramapithecus
D. Australopithecus

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks for the direct ancestor of Homo sapiens. This requires knowledge of human evolution and the lineage leading to modern humans.

2. **Identifying the Options**: The options provided are:
- Homo erectus
- Homo sapiens neanderthalensis
- Ramapithecus
- Australopithecus

3. **Analyzing Each Option**:
- **Homo erectus**: This species is known as the "upright man" and is considered a direct ancestor of Homo sapiens. They lived approximately 1.9 million to 135,000 years ago and show significant evolutionary traits leading to modern humans.
- **Homo sapiens neanderthalensis**: Neanderthals are closely related to modern humans but are not direct ancestors. They share a common ancestor with Homo sapiens but diverged from the lineage.
- **Ramapithecus**: This is an early human ancestor but not a direct ancestor of Homo sapiens. It represents an earlier stage in human evolution.
- **Australopithecus**: This genus represents some of the earliest forms of human-like beings but exhibits more ape-like characteristics and is not considered a direct ancestor of Homo sapiens.

4. **Conclusion**: Based on the analysis, the direct ancestor of Homo sapiens is **Homo erectus**.

### Final Answer
The direct ancestor of Homo sapiens is **Homo erectus**.

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