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The researchers used tissue samples taken from live sharks to determine that DNA linked the new shark species to the Hemiscyllium genus, according to Science Alert.
DNA testing also revealed that the walking sharks are the youngest type of shark on Earth, VICE reported.
"With our molecular clock, we've been able to show that this group really only branched off from their nearest ancestor about nine million years ago and they've been actively radiating ever since," Erdmann told VICE. "Obviously in human terms, that still seems like a long time ago, but for sharks, and for speciation in general, that's actually very recent."
"Data suggests the new species evolved after the sharks moved away from their original population, became genetically isolated in new areas and developed into new species," she said.
"They may have moved by swimming or walking on their fins, but it's also possible they 'hitched' a ride on reefs moving westward across the top of New Guinea, about two million years ago."
originally posted by: Flatcoat
That's is an amazing find....although I hope to god they don't evolve any further...land sharks would be just too much..
originally posted by: MarioOnTheFly
a reply to: Flatcoat
They would be way too slow on land. Something like crocs. Would probably rarely venture out of water.
I love you all!!!!!!!!
originally posted by: MarioOnTheFly
a reply to: Flatcoat
They would be way too slow on land. Something like crocs. Would probably rarely venture out of water.
originally posted by: underpass61
originally posted by: Flatcoat
That's is an amazing find....although I hope to god they don't evolve any further...land sharks would be just too much..
Did someone say Land Shark?