Scientists discover probable clues in turtle evolution
Researchers believe they have discovered the earliest known branch of the “turtle tree of life” in South Africa, Eunotosaurus africanus. They believe that despite being shell-less, the extremely wide ribs and circular torso place this reptile along the evolutionary chain leading to the origin of turtles. To quote from this article:
“One of the study’s key findings is that the skull of Eunotosaurus has a pair of openings set behind the eyes that allowed the jaw muscles to lengthen and flex during chewing. Known as the diapsid condition, this pair of openings is also found in lizards, snakes, crocodilians, and birds. The skull of modern turtles is anapsid – without openings—with the chamber housing the jaw muscles fully enclosed by bone.
“The anapsid-diapsid distinction strongly influenced the long-held notion that turtles are the remnants of an ancient reptile lineage and not closely related to modern lizards, crocodiles, and birds. The new data from Eunotosaurus rejects this hypothesis.”
I would imagine that it is possible this link will be questioned for the exact reason that it rejects the long-held hypothesis that turtles are not closely related to modern reptiles. I am sure some scientists will need at least a second possible ancestor to have the same condition to full reject this hypothesis.
Another article can be found here.
Turtle News From Around the World
Conservation
Hearings in Canada dicuss the impacts of wind energy on the Blanding’s Turtle.
A Mississippi uses a Girl Scout project to raise awareness for sea turtles.
Two conservation groups in the Solomon Islands get assistance from their government.
Crime & Punishment
Two men get probation for mutilation of sea turtle.
Did You Know…
Turtles have generally been considered to not be closely related to modern lizards, snakes, crocodilians, and birds. Of that group, turtles are considered closest to birds and crocodilians. This new discovery COULD change that.
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Illustration from Mick Ellison
