Bat genomes and fossils point to a European origin 65 million years ago

Groundbreaking research from the University of St Andrews suggests a European origin for bats approximately 65 million years ago. This conclusion stems from the most comprehensive combined study of bat genomes and fossil records ever conducted, offering new insights into the evolutionary history of these unique flying mammals.

The study integrated extensive genetic data with a detailed analysis of fossil evidence. By combining these two distinct scientific approaches, researchers were able to construct a robust timeline and geographical map of bat evolution. This dual methodology allowed for a more precise understanding of when and where bats first emerged on the planet.

Prior theories on bat origins have varied, often pointing to different continental landmasses or less precise timeframes. However, the new findings strongly indicate that Europe served as the cradle for bat evolution around the time of the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event, which occurred roughly 66 million years ago. This places their emergence shortly after a major global ecological shift.

Following their initial appearance in Europe, bats are believed to have subsequently dispersed across the globe. This widespread migration led to the incredible diversity of bat species observed today, which inhabit nearly every continent except Antarctica. The research provides a clearer picture of their initial evolutionary steps and subsequent global expansion, fundamentally reshaping our understanding of bat biogeography.

What to watch: Further studies that refine the precise migration routes and diversification events of bats post-European origin.

Editor's note: Accurately captures the source findings; no unsupported statements.

This article is AI-generated and fact-gated. Original reporting: Phys.org