Fossil links human hands to fins for the first time in Human Evolution
The Paleontologists of Canada have linked human hands to the fins of fish. The researchers examined a fossil of “Elpistostege”.
About the findings
The Elpistostege represents the pivotal stage of transition of fish into land vertebrates. The transition was supported by the front fins of the fish called the pectoral fins. These fins had radial bones that were arranged in a row like that of fingers. These bones should have given the flexibility to bear weight on land.
Elpistostege
The Elpistostege was completely aquatic. It had a crocodile-like body, flat triangular head, numerous teeth around jaws. The paleontologists believe that during its era, Elpistostege was the top predator in brackish estuary ecosystem. The Elpistostege lived during Devonian period. The four-limbed animals that evolved from these Elpistostege were called tetrapods.
Devonian Period
The Devonian Period spans for 60 million years and is around 419 million years ago. It is named after the place Devon, England where the rocks of the era were first found.
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Month: Current Affairs - March, 2020