A remarkable fossil discovery in Colombia is challenging how scientists understand major evolutionary changes in Earth's history. Researchers uncovered an incredibly diverse ancient marine ecosystem where giant reptiles, sharks, and other creatures thrived as older evolutionary groups approached extinction and newer ones emerged. They call this previously unrecognized pattern a "Biotic Inflection," suggesting that major transformations in life can occur without mass extinctions.
An ancient ocean full of giant predators reveals a surprising twist in evolution
Source: Science Daily
Original reporting
Science Daily: read the full reportFollow this story
Earlier reports and follow-ups on the same developing story.
Related stories
NPR Health
Is honesty always the best policy? When to speak up — or stay silent
Should you tell your boss she's got food on their face? Your partner you hate their outfit? Social psychologist Vanessa Bohns shares advice on when to tell someone the truth — or keep your mouth shut.
NPR Health
How word of mouth is helping an Amish community's fight against measles
In Pennsylvania, health officials use a quiet vaccination campaign designed to win the trust of the state's Amish community, which has been hit hard by the measles outbreak.
BBC Science
Locals launch campaign to buy ancient wood
Locals have a year to raise the money needed to buy Ruscombe Wood near Stroud.
BBC Science
House martin artificial nests scheme set to expand
The artificial nests are more robust than the endangered migratory birds' own mud creations.
BBC Science3 outlets
The swan sanctuary wetland fighting climate change
The global campaign to restore the "soggy secret weapon" that can combat against climate change.
Science Daily
Alzheimer’s may have early warning signs outside the brain
A surprising discovery suggests that some early signs of Alzheimer’s disease may begin outside the brain. Using miniature laboratory systems made from human cells, scientists found that genetic mutations associated with inherited Alzheimer’s can disrupt nerve-to-muscle connections without any involvement from the brain or spinal cord. This could help explain why some patients experience changes in balance, walking, and coordination long before memory problems develop.