The discussions reflect a strong interest and support for the research, with phrases like 'remarkable diversity' and references to the evolutionary history, indicating appreciation of both the scientific discovery and its broader implications. The tone shows curiosity and respect, with mentions of genetic analysis and fossil studies emphasizing the study’s potential to deepen understanding of deep-sea ecosystems.
AgreementModerate agreement
Most discussions acknowledge the significance of the study, citing it as a valuable discovery about deep-sea organisms, with some referencing specific findings like the diversity of Osedax lineages.
InterestHigh interest
The discussions demonstrate high interest, with many participants expressing fascination with the worms’ evolution, diversity, and relevance to understanding marine life history.
EngagementModerate engagement
Comments include references to the methods used, such as genetic analysis, and implications of the research, indicating active engagement rather than superficial mention.
ImpactModerate impact
While the discussions highlight the importance of the research, they mainly emphasize its scientific relevance and potential for future studies, suggesting a moderate perceived impact.
Abstract in brief
The study reveals that there are at least 17 genetically distinct lineages of bone-eating worms (Osedax) in addition to the five previously known species, and these lineages are grouped into five main clades with different physical traits.
Genetic analysis suggests that Osedax split from similar relatives around 45 million years ago, correlating with the appearance of early whales, but estimates vary depending on the molecular clock used, with some suggesting they originated as early as the Cretaceous period.
To better understand the evolutionary history of Osedax, researchers propose examining ancient fossil bones for trace fossils indicating the presence of these worms, which could help confirm their age and origin.]
Photos and reading: (1) Vrijenhoek, R.C., Johnson, S.B. & Rouse, G.W. A remarkable diversity of bone-eating worms. BMC Biol 7, 74 (2009). https://t.co/v4ee6jxXDK. (2, 3) OET/NOAA https://t.co/cM7ooh1FhI TWILIGHTED is funded by the EU
Photos and reading: (1) Vrijenhoek, R.C., Johnson, S.B. & Rouse, G.W. A remarkable diversity of bone-eating worms. BMC Biol 7, 74 (2009). doi.org/10.1186/1741.... (2, 3) OET/NOAA sanctuaries.noaa.gov/magazine/5/w... TWILIGHTED is funded by the EU
Did you know that traits in animal species can reappear in a new generation hundreds of years later? These ancient reappearing genetics are called Atavisms, helping us understand biology and evolution, like how limbs…
This video explores the remarkable diversity of bone-eating worms (Osedax), revealing at least 17 lineages. It discusses their evolutionary history, dating their origin to around 45 million years ago, and emphasizes…
Photos and reading: (1) Vrijenhoek, R.C., Johnson, S.B. & Rouse, G.W. A remarkable diversity of bone-eating worms. BMC Biol 7, 74 (2009). doi.org/10.1186/1741.... (2, 3) OET/NOAA sanctuaries.noaa.gov/magazine/5/w... TWILIGHTED is funded by the EU
Photos and reading: (1) Vrijenhoek, R.C., Johnson, S.B. & Rouse, G.W. A remarkable diversity of bone-eating worms. BMC Biol 7, 74 (2009). https://t.co/v4ee6jxXDK. (2, 3) OET/NOAA https://t.co/cM7ooh1FhI TWILIGHTED is funded by the EU
doi: 10.1186/1741-7007-7-74 Figure 1, Morphological diversity among Osedax lineages from Monterey Bay, CA. Osedax worms are attached to a turkey skeleton on ...