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Hi everyone, I am Khalifa, joined by Riley, we're excited to dive into the fascinating world of
evolutionary science.
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Our topic will cover several key aspects of how species, particularly cats and dogs, have evolved
over time.
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Let's start our evolutionary journey by exploring the fascinating connection between dogs and
cats, uncovering their shared ancestry and evolutionary paths.
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But first, what are the fossils?
Fossils are nature's time capsules. Fossils are preserved parts of a dead organism in rock, under
mud and underwater.
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By analyzing fossils record, scientists link ancient species to current ones. By studying where
these fossils are found, especially using principles like the law of superposition, we can estimate
their age.
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Fossil evidence, including transitional fossils, reveals evolutionary paths and common
ancestors for species like dogs and cats. Stratigraphic studies offer insights into events
like dinosaur mass extinctions. Factors such as climate and breeding have also played
crucial roles in species divergence
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Interestingly, we have discovered a common ancestor for cats and dogs - the Miacidae.
These extinct carnivores that are found in fossils from Paleocene – Eocene epoch.
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Now, let's dive into comparative anatomy.
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Homologous structures, like limbs in humans and whales, shows common evolutionary
origins and anatomies but serve different functions.
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This picture reveals a cat's and a dog's similar limbs structure.
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Then, how are they homologous?
Cats and dogs, while sharing homologous limb structures, have evolved distinct
adaptations: cats for agility in climbing and pouncing and dogs for endurance in
running and digging