Ancient Fossils of Daphnia and Their Coevolution with Predators
Author Information
Author(s): Kotov Alexey A, Taylor Derek J
Primary Institution: AN Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russia
Hypothesis
Does the timescale of co-evolution between Daphnia and phantom midges extend to the Mesozoic?
Conclusion
The main subgenera of Daphnia are likely much older than previously known, indicating a long history of coevolution with their predators.
Supporting Evidence
- The fossils indicate that the subgenera of Daphnia existed at least 145 million years ago.
- The findings suggest that the breakup of Pangaea is not linked to the origins of the main subgenera of Daphnia.
- The co-occurrence of Daphnia and their predators in the fossil record shows a long history of interaction.
Takeaway
Scientists found really old fossils of tiny water creatures called Daphnia that show they have been around for a very long time, even longer than we thought, and they have been living with their predators for a long time too.
Methodology
Limestone fragments with fossil impressions were collected and examined using scanning electron microscopy.
Limitations
The fossil record is incomplete, and the identification of some fossils is uncertain.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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