Evolutionary branch split from apes ~6 million years ago.
Early primate origins possibly humbler than previously thought.
Research in the Badlands of Wyoming
Jonathan Bloch hunting for bones unlike dinosaur bones, tiny mouse-sized bones.
Age-old mystery of primate origins.
Dinosaur Extinction and Primate Emergence
Dinosaurs ruled until a comet impact 65 million years ago.
Primates appeared around 56 million years ago.
Characteristics of Primates
Larger brains than other mammals.
Forward-facing eyes for 3D vision.
Ability to leap and grasp using hands/feet with nails.
Investigating the 10-Million-Year Gap
Question of what happened between dinosaur extinction and primate appearance.
Bloch's hypothesis of evolution from small mammal ancestors.
Excavation and Analysis
Bloch's team searching in Bighorn Basin for fossil evidence.
Process of extracting and studying fossils in lab using acid baths and mapping.
Discovery of Plesiadapiforms
Plesiadapiforms: mouse-like creatures existing between dinosaur extinction and early primates.
Over 120 species, including very complete skeletons.
Evidence for Primate Ancestors
Features like nail-like structures instead of claws suggest early primate characteristics.
Collaboration with Mary Silcox for CAT scans and further data collection.
Methodology and Findings
Compared fossil characteristics with modern species like tree shrews.
Developed a numerical system to analyze and compare data.
Creation of a single family tree through computer algorithms.
Conclusions
Evidence supports that plesiadapiforms are indeed early primates.
Dryomomys as a transitional species.
Ancestors evolved due to post-dinosaur extinction conditions, adapting to new environments.
Implications of Discoveries
Co-evolution with flowering plants led to dietary and anatomical changes.
Evolution of primates, including humans, was a gradual process over millions of years.
Conclusion
The study of early primate evolution provides insights into how current primates, including humans, evolved from small, primitive ancestors in the post-dinosaur world.