Articles tagged with Vertebrates
Researchers found that nectar-feeding bats rely on extra-long whiskers to navigate flowers while feeding, providing enhanced spatial information. Clipping whiskers reduced agility but didn't impact feeding ability.
Researchers have discovered that ancient crocodilian hemoglobin required 21 interconnected mutations to develop its hyper-efficient oxygen-binding properties. This complexity, not found in other vertebrates, enabled crocodilians to exploit their onboard oxygen stores for extended periods underwater.
A high-throughput analysis of 26 medically important snakes in sub-Saharan Africa reveals the benefits of an integrated approach to understanding their venom composition and function. The study provides a solid foundation for further research on snake biology and antivenom development.
A Collaborative Research Centre investigates animal navigation using the Earth's magnetic field. The study focuses on vertebrates, including birds and fish, aiming to protect endangered migratory species.
The research reveals PAPP-A's heart-shaped structure and its interaction with STC2, a key regulator of IGF conversion. The study suggests that complex formation between PAPP-A and STC2 is highly regulated, influencing height by up to 2.1 cm.
Researchers have discovered that erect-crested penguins, an endangered species, lay a smaller first egg and reject it in favor of a larger second egg. This reproductive strategy allows the bird to better feed its chicks and increases the chances of survival for both eggs.
Researchers used a random forest model to analyze hyena whoops and found that individual signatures are distinct enough for identification. Repeating calls can improve identification accuracy, peaking at seven repetitions.
Scientists discover Opisthiamimus gregori, a new extinct species of lizard-like reptile that lived in Jurassic North America alongside dinosaurs. The discovery sheds light on the evolution of rhynchocephalians, an order that diverged from lizards over 230 million years ago.
Researchers from the University of Tsukuba discovered that changes in the extracellular environment during metamorphosis and body growth enable newt muscle fibers to dedifferentiate and contribute to limb regeneration. This process is crucial for newts' ability to regenerate limbs throughout their life cycle.
A new study found evidence that multituberculates, an extinct group of mammals, likely reproduced in a placental-like manner. This discovery questions the long-held idea that marsupials were less advanced than placentals in terms of reproductive strategy.
A new study describes Qikiqtania wakei, a close relative of Tiktaalik roseae with features more suited for swimming and life in the water. The fossil includes partial jaws, neck, and scales, as well as a complete pectoral fin with a smooth and curved upper arm.
Researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign created a high-resolution map of the bearded dragon's brain, providing a standardized protocol for future clinical cases. The study identified nine anatomic structures in the brain and developed a safe and efficient MRI and sedation protocol.
Researchers from Species360 and the University of Southern Denmark found that most turtle and tortoise species show extremely slow senescence, while 80% have slower senescence than modern humans. This challenges evolutionary theories of aging, suggesting these animals may reduce their rate of aging in response to improved conditions.
Researchers evaluated the toxicological effects of BaP on bay scallops, finding increased immune response-related parameters with time at higher concentrations. The study suggests that BaP dampens the immune response of scallops and decreases their capacity to respond to oxidative stress.
Researchers used high-resolution micro-CT scans to reveal key features in Palaeospondylus fossils, placing it as an early ancestor of tetrapods. The study resolves long-standing evolutionary mysteries, including the lack of teeth and dermal bones in the fossil record.
A study by researchers at the University of Innsbruck discovered that the Cranial Sensory Ganglia in vertebrates shares a common genetic origin with Bipolar Tail Neurons found in tunicates. This finding suggests that Hmx, a gene conserved across evolution, played a crucial role in the formation of highly specialized sensory organs.
Two new species of Amazonian fish have been discovered and described by Smithsonian researcher Murilo Pastana, one with vibrant red-orange fins and another that is technically a miniature fish. The species are at risk of extinction due to deforestation in the region where they inhabit.
New study reveals a 54% to 76% decline in vertebrate specimen additions to natural history collections since 1965. The declines threaten to compromise the value of existing collections and limit future discovery, posing an unfillable gap for future generations.
A Dartmouth study using advanced recording technology reveals that females prefer lower frequency songs with low variance, while males time their songs to follow neighbors. The research shows how chorus composition and individual songs impact mating in wood frogs.
Research finds that bat box design and landscape placement significantly impact the energetic balance of endangered Indiana bats. A study by University of Illinois researchers tested five bat box designs and four landscape placements to determine their effects on bat metabolism, development, and survival.
Scientists have discovered six new species of frog in Mexico's forests, with one being the country's smallest, the 13mm-long Craugastor candelariensis. The newly discovered species are known as 'direct-developing' frogs, emerging from eggs as perfect miniature frogs.
A study has discovered that humans are disrupting a fundamental pattern in ecosystems, which dates back at least 66 million years. The U-shaped relationship between diet and size in modern land mammals has been found to span across multiple vertebrate groups, including birds, reptiles, and fish.
Researchers used X-ray computed microtomography to produce stunning 3D reconstructions of the proteus' head, revealing extensive changes in sensory organs and physical appearance. The study provides detailed information about evolutionary-designed adaptations for surviving in lightless caves.
A study reveals that new bird species arise in lowland habitats before moving higher into mountainous areas, where genetic differences accumulate. The research suggests that climate fluctuations, particularly during the Pleistocene era, contributed to the evolution of these high-altitude populations.
Researchers at WVU are studying the Musashi proteins to understand their role in retinal degeneration and develop a universal therapy. By investigating protein translation and gene suppression, they hope to identify potential pathways to boost protein production and slow vision loss.
Researchers discovered that forest mammals eavesdrop on monkey meals to access fruit dropped by messy eaters. This eavesdropping strategy is crucial for these animals' survival, particularly during periods when almond trees produce abundant food.
Researchers provide evidence that mammalian and avian primitive streaks evolved independently, using different mechanisms to form the body plan. They suggest alternative landmark for ethical oversight in human embryological research.
Researchers found that dual-regulation by two distinct groups of splicing factors ensures phase-separation of large exon-containing transcription factors. SRSF3 overrides the splicing-suppressive activity of hnRNP K on large exons.
Researchers discovered mosaic brain evolution in guppies through an artificial selection experiment. This phenomenon indicates that different brain regions evolve independently in response to environmental demands. The study has significant implications for understanding vertebrate and human brain evolution.
Researchers sequenced genomes of 90 Eastern massasauga rattlesnakes and found that potentially damaging gene mutations were less abundant. This suggests that inbreeding might not be as detrimental as theory predicts, as beneficial mutations can easily purge bad ones. The study's findings could influence management decisions.
Researchers have discovered a new species of otter in Germany that dates back to 11.4 million years ago. The Vishnu otter genus was previously known only from Asia and Africa, but this finding suggests they also occurred in Europe.
Scientists have discovered that geckos use their tails to recover from head-first crashes into rainforest trees, with implications for the design of agile robots. This versatile behavior allows geckos to stabilize themselves after impact and maintain control during gliding maneuvers.
A new study assesses the impact of environmental policies on Amazon biodiversity, finding that 40-73,400 square miles of rainforest have been affected by fires since 2001. The research highlights the need for strong antideforestation policies and recognition of Indigenous lands to protect the region's biodiversity.
A new fossil species, Taytalura alcoberi, has been discovered in Argentina's Late Triassic deposits. The 3D-preserved fossil provides insights into the early evolution of lepidosaurs, with its skull revealing a unique sphenodontian body type and dentition that differ from living or extinct groups.
A synthetic hinge concept developed by Indiana University School of Medicine Professor Michael A. Weiss and his team could lead to a breakthrough in 'smart' insulin therapy. The invention exploits a natural mechanism that allows the insulin to adjust its activity based on blood glucose levels, which could transform diabetes care.
Researchers found that jumping spiders can recognize biological patterns of movement, similar to vertebrates, using point-light displays. This skill allows them to focus on potential prey or predators while ignoring inanimate objects.
The scientific community may never settle on a 'total number' of vertebrate species due to unforeseen discoveries and changes in research methods. The tempo of taxonomy can help estimate biodiversity, but estimating the total species richness will remain elusive.
The latest study reveals that vertebrate dentitions evolved independently, with complex tooth structures gaining and losing throughout evolution. This contradicts the long-held view of sharks reflecting ancestral conditions for tooth development.
New study finds toxicity of commonly used pesticides to nontarget species, including aquatic invertebrates and pollinators, has increased considerably. The use of highly toxic pyrethroid and neonicotinoid pesticides is linked to these impacts.
New fossil discoveries of ancient lamprey growth series overturn conventional wisdom on the origin of vertebrates, including humans. Ancient lamprey larvae were found to have large eyes and toothed suckers like adult phases, contradicting long-held ideas about their evolutionary history.
The study of Tiktaalik roseae reveals an intermediate stage in vertebrate evolution, shifting from suction-based to biting-based feeding strategies. The fossil's anatomy suggests a synergistic feeding strategy combining snapping and suction, potentially leading to the development of four-limbed animals.
A team of scientists used virtual anatomy techniques to examine a 400-million-year-old fossil, discovering an unexpectedly modern inner ear structure that challenges previous assumptions about placoderm evolution. The findings suggest a possible link between ancient platypus fish and modern jawed vertebrates.
Researchers studied the brain and inner ear cavity of Brindabellaspis stensioi, discovering an ancient placoderm with features resembling modern jawed vertebrates. The fossil challenges existing theories on platyoderm relationships and sheds light on the evolution of jawed vertebrates.
Researchers propose that a family of transporter proteins, including ABCA1, enabled vertebrates to thrive on land and develop complex body structures. The protein regulated cholesterol levels, allowing for the development of sophisticated biological processes.
The study reveals new details on how the retina works and photoreceptors convert light into nerve signals. Spontaneous calcium flares were discovered in the tips of the outer segment, indicating a functional gradient and a need for turnover.
Researchers used computer simulations to study the behavior of ancient ancestors, revealing their ability to adapt to different positions within the water. The findings suggest that these jawless vertebrates were not as limited as previously thought and had diverse lifestyles.
Deep-sea anglerfish have evolved a unique immune system that allows them to temporarily or permanently fuse with their mates without experiencing immune rejection. This altered immunity, which lacks adaptive immune functions, has helped facilitate the evolutionary success of these species.
Researchers used synchrotron microtomography to visualize ancient fossils and found that acanthothoracid teeth were attached to jaw-bones like modern fish and land animals. This discovery challenges the common perception that sharks are primitive living vertebrates.
More than 500 terrestrial vertebrate species are on the brink of extinction, with fewer than 1,000 individuals remaining. Human activities in tropical and subtropical regions have driven the collapse of regional biodiversity, threatening numerous species.
The study reveals that jawless and jawed vertebrates share similar adaptive immune systems, despite independent evolution for over 500 million years. The researchers used CRISPR/Cas9 to disable a gene in lampreys, showing that they rely on a shared tool-kit to create antibodies.
A new study found that 85% of terrestrial vertebrate species are under intense human pressure, with 16% entirely exposed. Threatened species and those with small ranges are disproportionately affected.
Cuttlefish use stereopsis to estimate depth of prey, striking at it with tentacles after coordinating eye movement. This process is similar to that of vertebrates, challenging the understanding of cephalopod visual processing.
A study on pectoral fin rays of ancient fish species uncovers key structural changes enabling fins to give rise to limbs. The transformation is marked by the appearance of digits, reducing dermal fin rays and fin webs.
Researchers exposed chicken embryos to pollutants in crumb rubber, leading to mass loss and developmental issues, as well as gene dysregulation. The findings suggest a need to reassess the potential toxicity of crumb rubber used in playgrounds and athletic fields.
Using electric shocks accelerates the formation of limb and tail buds in early chicken embryos. The study reveals that concentric rings within the blastula deform in a cascade-like process, inducing each ring to change shape.
Selenocysteine is an essential amino acid for certain species, including humans and vertebrates, while others have lost it. Researchers from the Centre for Genomic Regulation have discovered that nine out of 1,000 fungi genomes contain selenocysteine.
A UTA biologist is leading a $3.4 million NIH grant to study the persistence of schistosomiasis, a deadly parasitic disease affecting over 200 million people globally. The project aims to understand transmission patterns and develop strategies for permanent reductions in the disease.
A new fossil discovery reveals defining characteristics of hagfish appeared before the Cretaceous period, resolving a longstanding debate on their evolutionary position. The study suggests that hagfish and lampreys form a distinct clade, implying that living jawless vertebrates may not be as primitive as initially thought.
The University of Extremadura researchers have developed a methodology with new algorithms to analyse the location of centriole in a model cell. They discovered how the actin cytoskeleton influences polarised placement of centrioles in Drosophila and vertebrates.
A study suggests that bioenergy crop expansion can outweigh gains from climate change mitigation in terms of biodiversity impact. The findings highlight the need for alternative strategies to reduce biodiversity loss under a high-emission scenario.