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Q&A: From 'mongoose-like' to lions, tigers and bears (oh my) — how changes in Earth's climate shaped carnivorans

Research led by the University of Washington found that climate transitions over 56 million years ago fueled the emergence of diverse carnivoran body shapes. The Eocene-Oligocene Transition led to changes between families, while the Mid-Miocene Climate Transition drove diversification within families.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateDec 17, 2025

Q&A: From 'mongoose-like' to lions, tigers and bears (oh my) — how changes in Earth's climate shaped carnivorans

A study by University of Washington researchers found that climate changes over 56 million years ago led to diversification of modern carnivores. The Eocene-Oligocene Transition and Mid-Miocene Climate Transition drove the emergence of new body shapes among species such as dogs, cats, bears, and seals.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateDec 17, 2025

Study reveals different phases of evolution during ice age

A recent study has discovered that cold-adapted species began evolving 2.6 million years ago, with many modern species emerging around 700,000 years ago. The research provides insights into the evolution of Arctic ecosystems and highlights the importance of understanding past adaptations to inform conservation efforts.

SourceBournemouth University·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 23, 2025

Groundbreaking study provides new evidence of when Earth was slushy

A groundbreaking study led by Virginia Tech provides the first direct geochemical evidence of a massive, rapid melting period on Earth after the last global ice age. The researchers analyzed lithium isotopes in carbonate rocks formed during this time and found strong evidence for freshwater meltwater interacting with the ocean.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 5, 2024