An exceptionally preserved fossil from Brazil shows that the first snakes tried out several different habitats early in their evolution. Researchers at the University of Helsinki led the 3D rendering of the fossil and the comparative analysis of its brain anatomy.

A new international study reveals seven previously unknown frog species and demonstrates how museum collections are helping uncover and conserve Madagascar's extraordinary biodiversity.

The signals that cells use to switch genes on have remained almost unchanged across two billion years of evolution, but the ones used to switch genes off vary dramatically from one branch of life to another, according to research of several major branches of life that have been largely absent from studies to date, including lineages such as discobans, rhizarians, ichtyosporeans and cryptomonads. The work helps understand how genomes evolved on Earth and could have implications for medical research into diseases involving faulty gene regulation.

A Swansea University researcher whose work could help create more inclusive icons and symbols for neurodivergent people has been awarded a prestigious scholarship to present her findings at a leading international psychology conference.