ScienceDaily: Fossils & Ruins News

A gene that shaped the evolution of Darwin's finches Posted: 11 Feb 2015 12:39 PM PST Researchers have identified a gene in Galápagos finches studied by English naturalist Charles Darwin that influences beak shape and that played a role in the birds' evolution from a common ancestor. The study illustrates the genetic foundation of evolution, including how genes can flow from one species to another, and how different versions of a gene within a species can contribute to the formation of new species.

Carbon release from ocean helped end the Ice Age Posted: 11 Feb 2015 10:20 AM PST A release of carbon dioxide from the deep ocean helped bring an end to the last Ice Age, according to new research. The study shows that carbon stored in an isolated reservoir deep in the Southern Ocean re-connected with the atmosphere, driving a rise in atmospheric CO2 and an increase in global temperatures. The finding gives scientists an insight into how the ocean affects the carbon cycle and climate change.

Oldest fur seal identified, ending 5-million-year 'ghost lineage' Posted: 11 Feb 2015 09:40 AM PST The oldest known fur seal has been discovered by a Geology PhD student at New Zealand's University of Otago, providing a missing link that helps to resolve a more than 5-million-year gap in fur seal and sea lion evolutionary history.

What makes the feather soar Posted: 11 Feb 2015 09:36 AM PST Bird species have adapted to so many ecological niches in large part because of the variety of ways feathers lend them a competitive advantage. New research shows that one key to the feather's manifold manifestations is the dynamic evolution of a protein family that first appeared some 150 million years ago: the beta-keratins.

When is a Pollock not a Pollock? Computer analysis verifies authenticity of Jackson Pollock's drip painting Posted: 10 Feb 2015 10:32 AM PST Abstract expressionist painter Jackson Pollock was perhaps most famous for his 'drip painting' technique. His legacy, however, is plagued by fake 'Pollocks' and even experts often have trouble distinguishing the genuine from the counterfeit. Now, a machine vision approach has demonstrated 93 percent accuracy in spotting true Pollocks.