The crocodile is one of the most ancient and iconic creatures on Earth. In a new study, researchers have unveiled a complex and fascinating look into the evolutionary history of the crocodile. The team used genetic analysis of modern crocodiles to identify the major evolutionary events in the history of this remarkable animal. The findings provide new insight into the evolution and diversification of crocodiles, and could help in their conservation.

The study, published in Nature Communications, found that crocodiles evolved from a common ancestor about 200 million years ago. From this ancestor, two distinct lineages emerged: a group of freshwater crocodiles and a group of marine and terrestrial crocodiles. These two lineages evolved to adapt to their respective environments, and eventually gave rise to the modern species of crocodiles we see today. The research also showed that the evolution of crocodiles was not a linear process, but one of repeated divergence and interbreeding between the two lineages.

This groundbreaking research gives us a greater understanding of the evolution of crocodiles, and could provide valuable insight into the conservation of this ancient species.

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source: Phys.org