Science2 sources
Asteroid That Wiped Out Dinosaurs May Have Aided Ant Evolution
- The asteroid that wiped out dinosaurs 66 million years ago may have influenced ant evolution.
- Scientists found that 'jumping genes' in ant DNA surged during the early Paleogene period.
- These genetic changes may have enhanced ants' olfactory receptors and social communication.
- Over 15,000 ant species exist globally, a testament to their evolutionary success post-asteroid impact.
- Dr. Lukas Schrader led the research highlighting these genetic developments.
Articles (3)
Science Daily·
The asteroid killed the dinosaurs. Why did crocodiles survive?
The Times of India·
The asteroid that wiped out the dinosaurs 66 million years ago may have also set the stage for ants to conquer the planet, with scientists finding a surprising boost from so-called jumping genes hidden in ant DNA
The asteroid that killed the dinosaurs may have helped ants conquer the world