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Showing posts with the label animal kingdom

What is the evolutionary origin of blood in the animal kingdom, and how diverse are blood types across different species, including variations like hemolymph and other lesser-known circulatory fluids?

Context The user is curious about the emergence of blood and circulatory systems in animal evolution. They want to understand how animals functioned before blood evolved and explore the diversity of blood types beyond common examples like hemoglobin-based blood, hemocyanin-based blood, and insect hemolymph. They are looking for information beyond what's readily available through standard Google Scholar searches. Simple Answer Animals started simple without any blood. Nutrients just diffused around. Then, some animals developed fluids to carry stuff, like hemolymph in insects. Later, more complex bloods appeared, like ours with hemoglobin to carry oxygen. Different animals use different stuff in their blood to do the same job, like hemocyanin. So, blood evolved over time, and there are lots of different kinds. Detailed Answer The evolution of blood and circulatory systems is a fascinating journey that reflects the increasing complexity of animal life. Initially, simple organisms rel...

Why Are So Many Different Kinds Of Mammals Living In The Ocean? Do Killer Whales Share A Common Ancestor With Humpback Whales And Leopard Seals?

Context This question explores the diversity of marine mammals and their evolutionary relationships. It specifically asks about the common ancestry of killer whales, humpback whales, and leopard seals. Simple Answer Many mammals live in the ocean because their ancestors evolved to live there over millions of years. They developed special features like flippers for swimming and thicker blubber to stay warm in cold water. Killer whales are a type of dolphin, so they are more closely related to other dolphins and whales than seals. Humpback whales are also whales, but they are baleen whales, meaning they filter food from water, while killer whales are toothed whales. Leopard seals are true seals, which are part of the pinniped family, distinct from whales and dolphins. Detailed Answer The presence of diverse marine mammals in the ocean is a testament to the remarkable adaptability of mammals and their ability to thrive in a wide range of environments. These creatures evolved from terrestr...