In what is being called the "missing link" in the transition from our planet's sea-based to land-based life, scientists have discovered 375 million year old fish fossils that mark the beginnings of limbs evolution:
…scientists found telling anatomical traits of a transitional creature, a fish that is still a fish but exhibiting changes that anticipate the emergence of land animals — a predecessor thus of amphibians, reptiles and dinosaurs, mammals and eventually humans.
The scientists described evidence in the forward fins of limbs in the making. There are the beginnings of digits, proto-wrists, elbows and shoulders. The fish also had a flat skull resembling a crocodile's, a neck, ribs and other parts that were similar to four-legged land animals known as tetrapods.
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Embedded in the pectoral fins were bones that compare to the upper arm, forearm and primitive parts of the hand of land-living animals. The scientists said the joints of the fins appeared to be capable of functioning for movement on land, a case of a fish improvising with its evolved anatomy. In all likelihood, they said, Tiktaalik flexed its proto-limbs primarily on the floor of streams and may have pulled itself up on the shore for brief stretches.
Sheesh, how is Carl Everett going to explain this one? Suffice to say, the Tiktaalik roseae fossil is one not likely to be found at the Ave Maria Natural History Museum. I realize that faith means the belief in something that cannot be proved, but does God really expect us to suspend use of our brains?
Flying Spaghetti Monster proponents could not be reached for comment.
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