A recent study published in Genome Biology reveals a high level of site-specificity in bacteria found in the human mouth, with distinct genetic forms associated with specific sites. The researchers used metapangenomics to identify novel bacterial strains and potential habitat-specific genes.
A newly developed behavioral monitoring system, CAPTURE, combines motion capture and deep learning to continuously track the three-dimensional movements of freely behaving animals. The system allows for precise measurement of behavior in naturalistic settings, providing valuable insights into brain function and behavior.
A study published in Biology Letters reveals that ancient synapsids, such as gorgonopsians and Dimetrodon, shared serrated tooth structures with theropod dinosaurs. These findings suggest that convergent evolution led to similar adaptations in these distinct groups of predators.
An international team of scientists has produced the first complete, species-level phylogeny of a major group of tropical birds known as suboscine passerines. The study used genetic markers scattered across the entire genome to describe the evolutionary history and create a framework for further questions about mechanisms that drive sp...
Researchers used high-resolution fossil data to analyze the humerus bone of early tetrapods, finding that they had adaptations indicating some ability to move on land. The study suggests that terrestrial ability coincided with the origin of limbs, providing new insights into the water-to-land transition in vertebrate evolution.
Scientists discovered a hibernation-like state in 250-million-year-old Antarctic animal, Lystrosaurus. The fossils showed signs of stress and strain, similar to those found in modern animals experiencing torpor, suggesting a possible adaptation to cope with the extreme winter conditions.
A team of researchers has identified a key gene, POPOVICH, responsible for the development of nectar spurs in Aquilegia. The study used a spurless species to pinpoint the gene and found that it promotes cell divisions in the regions where the spur develops.
A study found that fast rates of morphological evolution do not need to coincide with taxonomic diversification in reptiles. The team discovered that accelerated rates of evolution correspond to the origin of unique body plans, but varying rates can result in similar functional adaptations.
A team of researchers at Harvard University has used MicroCT technology to study the head morphology of Leanchoilia illecebrosa, an ancient arthropod species. The study reveals that the species had a labrum, a flap-like structure overlying the mouth opening in most modern arthropods.
Professor Peter Girguis has been awarded a five-year grant from the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation to pursue innovative research on symbiosis in aquatic systems. His team will use engineering approaches, genome sequencing, and protein analysis to understand how these symbioses change their environments.
Researchers from Harvard University review the tripartite system between bats, bat flies, and Laboulbeniales fungi, highlighting the need for further study on this understudied phenomenon. The team aims to advance our understanding of the biology, host associations, and phylogenetic relationships of these organisms.