It is believed that life on earth originated more than about 3.5 billion years ago but about 2 billion years ago it began to evolve into two broad branches, 'prokaryotes' like the simple cells of bacteria and the 'eukaryotes' with complex cells containing a nucleus and other intricate internal structures. Until now the cell division between the simple cells of microbes such as bacteria from the more complicated cells of animals and plants has been so abrupt and absolute that it was difficult to see how one could have evolved from the other. However, Uppsala University scientists have now discovered the 'missing link' between the two main life-forms. They found a new species of microbes that can explain evolution of organisms with complex cells from single-celled organisms.
During the study, the researchers found a new organism with the genes of both groups. It was found in sediment samples retrieved from the seabed about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) away from a volcanic hydrothermal vent called Loki's Castle situated in the mid-Atlantic between Greenland and Norway at a depth of 2,352 meters.
Darwin's Contribution to Evolutionary Theory may Not be Original, Claims Scientist
Patrick Matthew published the principle of natural selection as a mechanism of evolution in 1831, over a quarter-century earlier than Charles Darwin did.
Team leader Thijs Ettema said, "We've identified an organism that seems to represent a very distant cousin of humans and in doing so it tells them something about their own dark past. We are looking at the origin of complex life which occurred sometime after the origin of life itself. This discovery puts the origin of complex life in the spotlight."
Source: Medindia
Dramatic 'Blow Out' Phase of Galactic Evolution Revealed for First Time
Recently, astronomers were able to reveal the dramatic blow out phase of galactic evolution for the first time.
 Top Chef Jamie Oliver Cooks Song for 'Food Revolution Day'He co-wrote the song with musical superstars, Ed Sheeran and Sir Paul McCartney. The song aims to educate poor kids about food and will be released in May. | Advertisement
|
Scientists Shed New Light on Primate Biology and Evolution
Scientists from around the world led by Baylor College of Medicine and Washington University in St. Louis has completed the genome sequence of the common marmoset - the first sequence of a New World Monkey.
Latest Genetics & Stem Cells News
