An international team of evolutionary biologists has uncovered groundbreaking evidence that modern birds began their diversification well before the infamous extinction event that wiped out the dinosaurs. This discovery, recently published in the esteemed Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), challenges longstanding theories about avian evolution.
Traditionally, it was believed that birds rapidly evolved and diversified after the dinosaurs' demise, filling ecological niches left vacant by their extinct predecessors. However, the new findings suggest that the evolutionary journey of birds was already in motion millions of years earlier, indicating a more complex and prolonged period of diversification.
This revelation not only reshapes our understanding of how birds adapted and thrived but also provides deeper insights into the dynamics of evolutionary biology during a pivotal era in Earth's history. The research underscores the resilience and adaptability of avian species, highlighting their ability to evolve alongside dominant terrestrial creatures.
As the study continues to gain attention within the scientific community, it opens up new avenues for exploring the intricate relationships between ancient species and the forces that drive biodiversity.
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Scientists found modern birds diversified before dinosaur extinction
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