In 1859, Charles Darwin proposed an evolutionary mechanism suggesting small, accumulating changes over time would eventually lead to new species. However, recent research led by scientists from the Spanish National Research Council and the University of Pompeu Fabra challenges this view, particularly based on studies of earthworm DNA. This new study, published in Nature Ecology & Evolution, reveals that evolution may occur through rapid changes rather than gradual modifications.
Researchers sequenced high-quality genomes from various earthworm species and compared them to those of leeches and hair worms, examining genomic changes over 200 million years. Instead of gradual shifts, they found evidence of significant upheaval in genomic history, indicating a more tumultuous evolutionary process. Notably, despite the rapid changes, earthworms adapted and thrived rather than facing extinction.
This finding highlights that the understanding of evolution may be limited by existing theories. While this research focuses on worms, it suggests that different species, including humans, may evolve through varied processes. While the study doesn’t provide a complete understanding of evolution, it opens new avenues for further exploration.
