Ancient sea dwellers classified as 'living fossils' - some of Earth's most primitive life forms

Ancient sea dwellers classified as 'living fossils' - some of Earth's most primitive life forms

Slowest Evolution Rate in Vertebrates Discovered in Gars

In a groundbreaking study recently published in the journal Evolution, scientists have discovered that gars, often referred to as "living fossils," have the slowest rate of molecular evolution known to science. This slow evolutionary trajectory is primarily attributed to their exceptionally slow molecular clock, a result of their low metabolic rates and long generation times.

Gars, a group of toothy, torpedo-shaped fish that have remained relatively unchanged across vast expanses of time, have many similarities to the seven gar species alive today. Their physiology, including slow metabolism and long lifespans, reduces the number of molecular substitutions per unit time. This phenomenon is supported by studies comparing evolutionary rates across fish lineages, showing gars retain ancestral genomic features with minimal molecular evolution.

The study, led by Chase Brownstein and Thomas Near of Yale University and Dan MacGuigan of the University of Buffalo, suggests that the slow evolutionary trajectory of gars might allow distantly related species to continue producing offspring due to their similar molecular makeup. For instance, the alligator gar and longnose gar, distantly related species, have been found to interbreed, producing fertile offspring. This hybridization is more extreme than a human and a lemur producing fertile offspring, according to Carl Rothfels, an evolutionary biologist who discovered the hybridization between ferns.

One of the study authors, David, breeds gar for use as model organisms. The DNA and RNA of gars have changed up to three orders of magnitude more slowly than any other major group of vertebrates. This slow evolution could potentially have implications for human medicine and disease if the mechanism correcting mutations in gars can be replicated in human bodies. The scientists believe that the gars' evolutionary secrets, such as their efficient DNA-repair mechanism, could benefit human health, potentially preventing or counteracting diseases such as cancer, a result of shortcomings in DNA repair and cell growth run amok.

Interestingly, the hybrid gar produced by the interbreeding of alligator gar and longnose gar has a snout that is wider than that of a longnose gar but not as wide as an alligator's. This hybrid species was recently discovered by Kati Wright, a master's student at Nicholls State University, in the Trinity River, Texas.

The slow evolutionary trajectory of gars might be due to an over-active DNA repair mechanism, according to the scientists. This would explain why gars have such a slow rate of molecular evolution among vertebrates.

This study adds to our understanding of the unique characteristics of gars, which were present in the seas 150 million years ago, around the time when the supercontinent known as Pangaea was just beginning to break up. During this period, other animals like ichthyosaurs were present in the seas, and stegosaurs roamed the land. The findings could pave the way for future research into how gars' evolutionary secrets can be harnessed to benefit human health.

1. The slowest rate of molecular evolution in vertebrates was discovered in gars, known as "living fossils."
2. The slow evolutionary trajectory is primarily attributed to their low metabolic rates and long generation times.
3. Gars have many similarities to the seven gar species alive today, thus retaining ancestral genomic features with minimal molecular evolution.
4. The study suggests that the slow evolutionary trajectory of gars might allow distantly related species to continue producing offspring.
5. In Texas, a hybrid gar species was recently discovered by Kati Wright, a master's student, produced by the interbreeding of alligator gar and longnose gar.
6. The authors of the study believe that gars' evolutionary secrets could benefit human health, potentially preventing or counteracting diseases like cancer.
7. The recent study, published in the journal Evolution, was led by Chase Brownstein and Thomas Near of Yale University and Dan MacGuigan of the University of Buffalo.
8. David, one of the study authors, breeds gar for use as model organisms in medical research.
9. The scientists attribute the slow evolution of gars to an over-active DNA repair mechanism.
10. The DNA and RNA of gars have changed up to three orders of magnitude more slowly than any other major group of vertebrates.
11. The slow evolution could have implications for human medicine and disease.
12. The alligator gar and longnose gar, distantly related species, have been found to interbreed, producing fertile offspring.
13. This hybridization is more extreme than a human and a lemur producing fertile offspring, as discovered by Carl Rothfels, an evolutionary biologist.
14. Gars were present in the seas 150 million years ago, around the time when the supercontinent known as Pangaea was just beginning to break up.
15. During this period, other animals like ichthyosaurs were present in the seas, and stegosaurs roamed the land.
16. This study could pave the way for future research into how gars' evolutionary secrets can be harnessed to benefit human health.
17. In the culinary world, sustainable living can be embraced through cooking global cuisines, using data and cloud computing for recipe discovery and meal planning.
18. Health and wellness can be improved through fitness and exercise, eye health, hearing, digestive health, and more, each of which plays a crucial role in maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
19. Home improvement can be achieved through gardening, interior design, and home-and-garden projects, creating a harmonious environment that enhances wellbeing.
20. Online education and self-development are essential for personal growth, with variety in global cuisines, lifestyle choices, outdoor living, automobiles, car maintenance, and product reviews available at one's fingertips.
21. Deals and discounts on technology, healthy cooking, and quality dining experiences can enhance overall quality of life while budgeting effectively for various purchases.
22. Electronic vehicles improve car maintenance and contribute to a greener environment, aligning with the principles of sustainable living.
23. Adventure travel opens up opportunities to explore diverse cultural travel and budget-friendly options, fostering lifelong learning and enriching personal growth.
24. Autoimmune disorders, cardiovascular health, psoriasis, chronic kidney disease, respiratory conditions, and medical-conditions such as Alzheimer's disease require constant management for optimal health and wellness.
25. A balanced, nutritious diet, incorporating beverages, baked goods, and home-made recipes, is essential in managing health conditions and promoting overall health.
26. Space and astronomy provide us with remarkable insights into our planet, earth, and the universe, enriching our understanding of life, conservation, and the environment from a global perspective.
27. Environmental science, as a field, focuses on solutions that promote sustainable living, maintaining a harmonious balance between human health and the environment.
28. CBD, a natural product, has been shown to potentially alleviate symptoms of various neurological disorders and chronic diseases.
29. Lifestyle choices, such as employing eco-friendly practices, foster sustainable living and contribute to the preservation and conservation of the earth and its species for future generations.
30. Travel, whether for adventure, education, or leisure, offers opportunities for personal growth, cultural exchange, relaxation, and learning about earth and space, all while fostering an appreciation for different lifestyles, global cuisines, and diverse cultures.

Read also: