Bats originated in Europe, rewriting mammals’ family tree, study reveals

Published 6d ago · Updated 5d ago

Covered in 3 countries

AI summary40s readPositive

A landmark genomic study places the origin of bats in Europe millions of years ago while shedding light on early echolocation.

The largest-ever genetic and fossil analysis of bats indicates they first emerged in Europe approximately 65 million years ago. Researchers found that echolocation developed early in the lineage, offering a potential gamechanger for studying human health applications like treating viruses and cancer. This comprehensive genomic and paleontological mapping significantly clarifies the murky evolutionary history of mammals.

The research combines both genome sequencing and fossil data to reconstruct the evolutionary tree of bats.
Scientists believe the insights gained from bat biology could eventually aid in medical research for human diseases.
Echolocation was found to be an early adaptation in the evolutionary history of the species.

Written from 2 of 3 outlets — 1 has since joined this story.

By the numbers

65million years ago bats emerged

Why it matters

Understanding the deep evolutionary origins of bats helps researchers decode their unique immune systems and high resistance to certain pathogens, which can offer valuable medical parallels for humans.

What outlets agree on

Outlets agree that a major new study demonstrates bats originated in Europe and that the research provides significant new insights into mammalian evolution.

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Covered by 3 outlets

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