The human species spread over land and sea, altering the planet in countless ways, but life could continue on Earth without humans.
Human extinction could bring another species to the fore PHOTOS Shutterstock
Earth’s history shows that no species lasts forever. Human beings have been at the center of ecological change on Earth for thousands of years. Their inventions and communities reshaped forests, oceans, and even the atmosphere.
However, many researchers say nature will adapt once we’re gone. Professor Tim Coulson of the University of Oxford has spent years studying biology and evolution and believes that the extinction of humans could open the door to surprising new species taking over Earth’s ecological roles, according to earth.com.
In his book, The Universal History of Us, he traces the entire history of life and focuses on one amazing prediction of what might come next. One of his main themes involves evolution, which he describes as “the gradual change of living organisms over time as they become better adapted to their environment”.
He points out that “most mutations are harmful, but a few provide a survival or reproductive advantage”. Because genes are inherited, these beneficial mutations become more common over generations.
Potential successor to humans on Earth
Instead of our primate relatives, Coulson offers a contender that many might find amazing: the octopus. He emphasizes their intelligence and adaptability.
“Their ability to solve complex problems, communicate with each other, and manipulate objects suggests that, given the right environmental conditions, they could evolve into a civilization-building species.”Coulson stated.
He added that “their advanced neural structure, decentralized nervous system, and remarkable problem-solving skills make many octopus species well-suited for an unpredictable world.”
Octopuses already have a reputation for being creative and a little mischievous.
“Some individuals even escape from the tanks at night in some research centers, visiting the neighbors”, Coulson also said. They have been known to use tools, open jars and show signs of curiosity.
