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The study shows that in the process of evolution, horned dinosaurs (Ceratops) chose to increase their body size and protective armor, which was accompanied by a decrease in their brain and cognitive abilities.
An American-Chinese team of scientists analyzed the fossilized skulls of ceratops, tracing the evolutionary path of these species for 100 million years. In the early stages of development, ceratopsians were small bipedal animals with large brains, keen hearing and sense of smell, which provided them with high adaptability and intellectual advantages. However, the gradual increase in body size was accompanied by a decrease in dependence on sensory organs such as smell and hearing, and a decrease in the ratio of brain to body size.
Early ceratopsians, for example, small species up to two meters long, had developed brains that provided them with high efficiency in detecting threats and adapting to their environment. They relied on their senses to survive. But as evolution progressed, these animals began to acquire large sizes (up to 9 meters long) and heavy defensive structures, such as horns and cellular shields, which allowed them to resist predators without the need for significant cognitive effort.
Brain shrinkage, according to the researchers, was accompanied by a decrease in sensitivity to high-frequency sounds and a weakening of the sense of smell. In fact, the larger horned dinosaurs made a bet on physical strength and armor, sacrificing intellectual capabilities. This suggests that evolutionary pressure favored physical advantage over cognitive characteristics.
Parallels with modernity
This evolutionary trend draws interesting parallels with modern humans, who are increasingly dependent on technology in their daily lives. As the scientists note, the reduction of the need for adaptive thinking and sensory activity due to the use of artificial intelligence and automation may lead to a potential decline in cognitive abilities in the future.
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The researchers note that throughout the history of evolution, different species have shown varying degrees of dependence on the brain. For example, carnivores that hunt and cooperate in groups tend to have larger brains compared to herbivores that rely more on physical defense. The human brain, on the other hand, has evolved to become larger and more complex, allowing for the creation of complex tools and cultures.
However, excessive technologization can become an evolutionary challenge. As one of the authors of the study, Han Fenglu from the China University of Geosciences, noted, “People are increasingly relying on mechanization and intelligent systems. This could reduce our ability to adapt quickly if these technologies become unavailable.”
Lessons from the evolution of dinosaurs
A study published in the journal Paleobiology, emphasizes the importance of a balance between physical and cognitive characteristics. The evolution of ceratopsians demonstrates that changes in the environment and adaptive strategies can significantly affect the biological characteristics of species. This example, in turn, can serve as a warning to humanity about the risks of excessive dependence on technology.
Evolution, driven not only by natural factors but also by species selection, can direct cognitive development in an unpredictable direction. Therefore, people should make an effort to use modern technologies as an auxiliary, not a defining element of their lives.
Here are three related news stories about the evolution of dinosaurs and their cognitive abilities:
- Paleontologists challenged the hypothesis about the developed intelligence of tyrannosaurs
A detailed analysis of methods for studying the brains of tyrannosaurs has shown their unreliability, casting doubt on the assumption of high intelligence of these predators. - Scientists have found a unique mechanism of adaptation in the bones of dinosaurs
The study found that aerated bones evolved independently in three different dinosaur lineages, suggesting their ability to adapt. - Paleontologists have described a long-legged relative of the tyrannosaurus
A new species of tyrannosaurid from Mexico had long hind limbs and a light body structure, distinguishing it from its known relatives
The article Giant dinosaurs shrank their brains for protection - research appeared first on Curiosity.
