Bats and Evolution
At first glance, all bats look alike but a closer look will reveal the differences which come in categories such as the shape, size, length of ears and shape of the head. The current shapes and appearances are the end result of many years of evolution. Bats seem to have mastered the art of changing to meet the needs of their world.Bat Evolution – A Closer Look
Biology researchers Jessica Arbour, Abigail Curtis, and Sharlene Santana have been exploring the variation among bat skulls. They used high-resolution microCT scans to look at around 200 bat species. They focused on sections of the bats’ skulls and how each functioned. Sections like the lower jaw which mainly serves as a feeding tool for the bat were found to be more susceptible to evolution than sections such as the cranium which engages in brain protection, feeding, and respiration.Two Influencers of Bat Evolution Uncovered
The scientists found that the initial cause of skull changes was echolocation. This took place between 58 and 34 million years ago. Over time, each species developed its own unique echolocation methods. Some developed the ability to emit the waves through their nostrils and one species (the Megabat) stopped using their larynx together.