Evolutionary Event Underlying Origin Of Dachshunds, Dogs With Short Legs, Discovered
Thursday, July 16, 2009 - 23:14
in Biology & Nature
A single evolutionary event appears to explain the short, curved legs that characterize all of today's dachshunds, corgis, basset hounds and at least 16 other breeds of dogs, researchers report. In addition to what it reveals about short-legged dogs, the unexpected discovery provides new clues about how physical differences may arise within species and suggests new approaches to understanding a form of human dwarfism.