We used tell-tale markings on ribs to show that uncinate processes were widespread in dinosaurs and their relatives, and likely represent an ancient adaptation for improved respiration that was ultimately inherited by birds. Blog post by Yan-yin Wang, with contributions from Leon P. A. M. Claessens and Corwin Sullivan.

Amphibians have undergone important evolutionary transitions in reproductive modes and life-cycles. In our recent study, we compare large-scale macroevolutionary patterns in these transitions across the three major amphibian groups; frogs, salamanders and caecilians.

Fishes are increasingly challenged by low dissolved oxygen in nature and their survival relies, in part, upon their molecular responses. This study sheds new light on the evolution and diversity of the hypoxia inducible factor, the master regulator of oxygen-dependent gene expression, in fishes.