Overview
A large-scale study, integrating genomic and fossil data, proposes that bats originated in Europe between 65 and 60 million years ago. This research indicates that fundamental bat characteristics, specifically flight and echolocation, developed early in their evolutionary history. The emergence of these traits near the beginning of bat evolution is suggested as a factor contributing to their success as a mammalian order.
Approach
The study employed a combination of genomic and fossil analysis. The researchers conducted a "huge genomic and fossil study" to investigate the evolutionary origins and spread of bats.
Findings
- Bats are suggested to have first evolved in Europe.
- The approximate timeframe for their initial evolution is estimated to be between 65 and 60 million years ago.
- Following their emergence, bats are indicated to have subsequently spread globally.
- The study's findings suggest that flight emerged near the beginning of bat evolution.
- Echolocation is also indicated to have emerged near the beginning of bat evolution.
- The early emergence of flight and echolocation is potentially linked to how bats became one of the most successful mammal groups on Earth.
Why This Matters
The findings provide a potential explanation for the widespread success of bats, linking their early evolutionary advantage in flight and echolocation to their current status as one of Earth's most successful mammal groups.