Paleontology
Dinosaurs thrived until asteroid impact, study finds
A new study challenges the idea that dinosaurs were declining before their extinction 66 million years ago. Researchers found evidence of thriving dinosaur communities in New Mexico right up to the asteroid strike. The findings highlight distinct regional ecosystems shaped by climate.
Jurassic midge fossil challenges insect evolution theories
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An international team of researchers has discovered a 151-million-year-old fossil of a non-biting midge in Australia, the oldest known from the Southern Hemisphere. This find, named Telmatomyia talbragarica, reveals freshwater adaptations previously linked only to marine species, suggesting the Chironomidae family originated in Gondwana. The discovery reshapes understanding of ancient insect biogeography.
New Mongolian dinosaur bridges gap to tyrannosaurs
Paleontologists have discovered Khankhuuluu, a new species of tyrannosauroid dinosaur from Mongolia that represents a key transitional form in the evolution of Tyrannosaurus rex. This medium-sized predator, weighing about 750 kilograms, lived 86 million years ago and likely migrated from Asia to North America, where larger tyrannosaurs evolved. The find, detailed in a recent Nature study, highlights the dinosaur's agile hunting style and shared traits with later giants.
Ancient lead exposure may have shaped human brain evolution
A study of fossil teeth reveals that prehistoric hominids were exposed to lead for at least 2 million years, potentially influencing brain evolution. Modern humans appear to have adapted better to the toxin than relatives like Neanderthals, according to research using ancient samples and brain organoids. However, some experts question the extent of this exposure and its evolutionary implications.
Woolly mammoth skeleton installed permanently at CosmoCaixa
The woolly mammoth skeleton has found its permanent home at Barcelona's CosmoCaixa museum after touring several Spanish cities. This emblematic piece, made from bones of three Russian specimens, now draws visitors in the Evolution hall. Museum officials highlight its value in understanding our shared history with ancestors.