Scientists uncover the mystery of ancient snakes' origins
Scientists have found that ancient snakes did not follow a single evolutionary path but instead adapted to various habitats. The study, published in Nature, is based on the examination of a new species, Tametara mirim, from Brazil. Analysis of the skull revealed that this species led a subterranean lifestyle, whereas Dinilysia patagonica inhabited the surface.
Scientists have discovered that ancient snakes did not follow a single evolutionary path but instead adapted to a variety of habitats. The research, published in the journal Nature, is based on the study of a new species, Tametara mirim, found in deposits about 80 million years old in southeastern Brazil. The team used computed tomography and three-dimensional visualization to examine the skull, vertebrae, and endocast. The analysis showed that Tametara was specialized for a subterranean lifestyle, while the Argentine snake Dinilysia patagonica lived on the surface. This indicates that early snakes repeatedly transitioned from underground to terrestrial and aquatic environments, occupying various niches. The project was led by Tiago Simões from Princeton University. The team also included Tiago Di-Poi from the University of Helsinki and Annie Hsiu from the University of São Paulo. The researchers emphasize that snake ancestors flexibly experimented with sensory approaches and environmental strategies.