Evolution
Thousands of genomes reveal the wild wolf genes in most dogs’ DNA
Thousands of genomes reveal the wild wolf genes in most dogs’ DNA Dogs were domesticated from gray wolves between 20,000 to 22,000 years ago, and their genomes still contain wild wolf genes. A study analyzing 2,693 dog and wolf genomes found that most dogs have detectable wolf DNA, even in small amounts, with some breeds […]
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These hummingbirds’ bills evolved for fighting
These hummingbirds’ bills evolved for fighting Male green hermit hummingbirds have evolved straighter, sharper, and structurally stronger bills for fighting, which has shaped their species’ evolution. Their bills are designed to be effective weapons, allowing them to defend their perches and compete for mates in a “singles bar” setting where they gather to find partners. […]
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Fern stems reveal secrets of evolution – how constraints in development can lead to new forms
Fern stems reveal secrets of evolution – how constraints in development can lead to new forms Ferns can teach us about evolution by examining their inner anatomy, particularly their stems and roots. The arrangement of vascular bundles in fern stems varies substantially, but recent research suggests that this variation is linked to the number and […]
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If evolution is real, then why isn’t it happening now? An anthropologist explains that humans actually are still evolving
If evolution is real, then why isn’t it happening now? An anthropologist explains that humans actually are still evolving Humans are still evolving today, just like our ancestors did in the past. We adapt to our environments through traits that give us an advantage, such as skin pigmentation and digestive abilities. The role of culture […]
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Forests on land kicked off life in the deep sea
Forests on land kicked off life in the deep sea Forests that evolved on land around 400 million years ago played a crucial role in sparking life in the deep sea, according to new research. The study found that the deep ocean didn’t become permanently oxygenated until about 390 million years ago, much later than […]
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AI reveals which predators chewed ancient humans’ bones – challenging ideas on which ‘Homo’ species was the first tool-using hunter
AI reveals which predators chewed ancient humans’ bones – challenging ideas on which ‘Homo’ species was the first tool-using hunter Researchers used AI to analyze tooth marks on ancient human fossils from Olduvai Gorge, Tanzania, which challenged the long-held idea that Homo habilis was the first tool-using hunter. The study found that the tooth marks […]
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Aging chimps show human-like cognitive decline
Aging chimps show human-like cognitive decline Aging chimpanzees may be showing signs of human-like cognitive decline, similar to Alzheimer’s disease, according to a new study published in eLife. The researchers observed that older female chimpanzees who used to be skilled at cracking nuts with stones were confused and faltered in performing tasks, suggesting a decline […]
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Why and how does personality emerge? Studying the evolution of individuality using thousands of fruit flies
Why and how does personality emerge? Studying the evolution of individuality using thousands of fruit flies Fruit flies, like all animals, have unique personalities that emerge from their individual experiences and genetic makeup. A study using thousands of fruit flies found that even simple behaviors, such as turning left or right in a maze, can […]
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3-legged lizards can thrive against all odds, challenging assumptions about how evolution works in the wild
3-legged lizards can thrive against all odds, challenging assumptions about how evolution works in the wild Researchers have discovered that 3-legged lizards can thrive against all odds, challenging assumptions about how evolution works in the wild. A global survey of over 60 colleagues worldwide documented 122 cases of limb loss across 58 lizard species, revealing […]
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Hobbits of Flores evolved to be small by slowing down growth during childhood, new research on teeth and brain size suggests
Hobbits of Flores evolved to be small by slowing down growth during childhood, new research on teeth and brain size suggests Hobbits of Flores, also known as Homo floresiensis, evolved to be small by slowing down growth during childhood, according to new research on teeth and brain size. The discovery of Hobbits challenged the long-held […]
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