What is Koobi Fora?
Q: What is Koobi Fora?
A: Koobi Fora is a region around Koobi Fora Ridge, on the eastern shore of Lake Turkana, Kenya. It is in the territory of the nomadic Gabbra people and can also be referred to as East Turkana.
Q: What type of sediments make up the ridge?
A: The ridge is composed of claystones, siltstones, and sandstones.
Q: What fossils have been found in this area?
A: Numerous fossils of land mammals, including early hominin species have been found at Koobi Fora.
Q: Who established the base camp at Koobi Fora Spit?
A: Richard Leakey established the Koobi Fora Base Camp on a large sandspit projecting into the lake near the ridge in 1968.
Q: How long ago were hominin fossils discovered here?
A: Hominin fossils from as far back as 4.2 million years ago have been discovered at Koobi Fora.
Q: What other types of fossils are present besides humanoid ones?
A: Non-humanoid fossils such as those from Miocene fauna and flora are also present at this site.
Q: Is there any protection for sites and wildlife in this area?
A: Yes, Sibiloi National Park was reserved by the government of Kenya in 1973 which provides protection for sites and wildlife with armed park police guarding it. Additionally, exploration and excavation are done by the Koobi Fora Research Project (KFRP) which collaborates with universities and individuals worldwide to protect these areas further.
