Scientists Uncover New Clues to Limb Formation (and Loss) in Some Sea Mammals- All Images

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News Release 06-089

Scientists Uncover New Clues to Limb Formation (and Loss) in Some Sea Mammals

Findings help solve mystery of whales' missing legs

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Small blue bars beneath the tails indicate a pelvis that once supported hind legs.

The small blue bars beneath the tails of these developing dolphins indicate a pelvis that once supported hind legs in the adult ancient sea mammal. In modern animals, the bones dissappear during the second month of gestation.

Credit: Hans Thewissen

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