Bats evolved in Europe 65 million years ago
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An international team of 137 researchers from 64 countries determined that bats first evolved in Europe around 65 million years ago.
The scientists, part of the Bat1K consortium and led by Emma Teeling of University College Dublin, analysed genomes and fossils to trace the evolutionary history of these flying mammals. They gathered genetic information from 103 bat species, representing all 21 currently recognised families, and combined it with data from 44 bat fossils found worldwide.
The study challenges previous theories that placed the origin of bats in Asia, Africa, or North America. Researchers found evidence suggesting early bats spread from Europe into Africa, establishing a European-African hub before migrating to Asia, the Americas, and Australia. The team also discovered that echolocation developed alongside flight early in bat evolution, contributing to their success as a species.
This research provides a foundation for future studies into the genetic reasons behind bats’ long lifespans and disease resistance, which could have implications for human health.
