Ancient Fossils Show First Predator-Prey Arms Race

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Scientists have discovered a small fossilized shell that has holes created by hunters in South Australia, revealing the story of ancient life dating back 517 million years ago.

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The relationship between predator and prey led to the evolution of natural defenses, such as thicker shells, sharper teeth, and faster reflexes.

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These findings explain how evolutionary pressures have affected adaptations found in modern animals and humans.

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Researchers studied more than 200 fossil shells using advanced microscopy to find evidence of an evolutionary arms race.

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The hunter improves bullet-breaking ability as the prey develops stronger armor to survive.

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This dynamic is reflected in modern examples, such as mosquitoes becoming resistant to insecticide spray or bacteria that have developed resistance to the antibiotics.

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Ancient marine animals show how dealing with predators drove evolutionary and survival strategies.

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These findings highlight the universal importance of adaptation in the face of environmental challenges.

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Learning from models of natural evolution can help scientists tackle modern problems such as antibiotics resistance.

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