Comb jelly is known as a small and harmless marine animal at the same time. This species of animal has existed in the world for a long time. Scientists believe that they have existed since before the time of dinosaurs. On the other hand, sea sponges are also part of the oldest animals on Earth.
A recent study suggests that comb jelly carries genetic material from non-animal ancestors. A remarkable feature of the body of comb jelly is that cilia hairs are located here.
They accomplish hunting by releasing sticky substances. Researchers at the University of California Berkeley and the University of Vienna have attempted initial analysis of comb jelly. However, their efforts were ultimately unsuccessful.
Next, the researchers focused on the animal’s chromosomes and examined the arrangement of genes. By analyzing the structure of chromosomes, researchers get a clear idea. Comb jelly exhibits a unique pattern that is quite similar to non-animal organisms.
The line of descent of the comb jelly stopped before significant changes in the animal’s chromosomes occurred. Ancient chromosome arrangement can be seen in these animals. Such research plays an important role in understanding the evolution of animal muscles, other organs and chromosomes.
Derin, the author of the study and a renowned biologist, believes that the method used here can be used in other studies. The genera of comb jelly are among the oldest living organisms. They existed 600-700 million years ago.
Such studies are important for understanding the physical structure of animals like comb jelly or jellyfish in the past. Sponges lack a nervous system and muscles. In many cases, marine animals do not have a well-developed brain, muscles or nervous system.