Echinoderm Enigma Solved: Starfish Bodies Resemble Heads, New Study Finds

Recent research at the University of Southampton unveils a startling fact: starfish bodies function similarly to heads.

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This study, a collaboration between top universities, marks a paradigm shift in our understanding of echinoderm anatomy.

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Advanced molecular techniques reveal that starfish's unique body plan mirrors the head structure of their bilateral ancestors.

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Dr. Jeff Thompson from Southampton highlights the complexity in relating starfish anatomy to traditional bilateral organisms.

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Innovative RNA tomography used in the study offers unprecedented insights into the gene expression of sea stars.

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The discovery challenges long-held beliefs about the evolutionary path of echinoderms.

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This research could redefine how we perceive the diversity and adaptability of marine life forms.

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Experts suggest that echinoderms evolved their unique structure by losing the trunk region, a significant evolutionary leap.

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The study, supported by renowned scientific bodies, opens new doors in marine biology and evolutionary science.

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