# Bats originated in Europe 65 million years ago, genome study reveals Global bat evolution traced to late Paleocene period through largest genomic study - **Source:** [Sci-Tech News | Latest Technological Developments | The Hindu](https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/) - **Published:** 2026-09-25 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/adeba034-ddba-46e6-b40a-1e83c420bb3c ## European origin confirmed The largest genomic study of bats to date, involving 137 scientists from 64 countries, conclusively determined that bats first evolved in Europe 65 million years ago during the late Paleocene period. This finding overturns previous theories suggesting African or North American origins. The research analyzed 103 bat species, including rare specimens and fossils, using advanced DNA sequencing techniques to reconstruct their evolutionary history. ## Global dispersal pattern Bats spread from their European origin to Africa first, then subsequently colonized Asia, the Americas, and Australia. Their unique ability to fly gave them exceptional dispersal capabilities, allowing them to eventually inhabit every continent except Antarctica. The study's evolutionary tree mapping revealed precise migration patterns that explain current global bat distribution. ## Early development of key traits Flight and echolocation capabilities emerged almost simultaneously at the beginning of bat evolution, predating the diversification of modern bat species. The research examined fossil evidence showing echolocation developed before major bat lineages diverged. These adaptations provided crucial survival advantages during a period of significant global temperature and environmental changes. ## Unprecedented research collaboration The Bat1K consortium brought together international expertise to create the most comprehensive bat genomic dataset ever assembled. Researchers employed cutting-edge sequencing methods to compare both modern and fossil bat DNA. The project's scale enabled resolution of long-standing debates about bat phylogeny and evolutionary relationships between different groups. ## Ecological importance revealed Despite being frequently associated with disease transmission, bats play vital ecological roles as pollinators, pest controllers, and seed dispersers. The study highlights how their unique immune adaptations allow them to host diverse viruses without symptoms. Some species exhibit exceptional longevity compared to similarly-sized mammals, offering potential insights for human medicine. ## Medical research implications The genomic resource created by this study opens new avenues for understanding bats' disease resistance and longevity mechanisms. Researchers aim to identify specific genetic factors that could inspire novel approaches to human health. The long-term goal involves developing bat-inspired medical interventions based on their unique biological adaptations. ## Evolutionary adaptability With over 1,500 extant species, bats demonstrate extraordinary evolutionary flexibility. Their ability to thrive in diverse climates and migrate thousands of kilometers reflects successful adaptation strategies. The study provides foundational data for future research into how bats respond to environmental pressures, which may inform conservation efforts for these ecologically critical mammals. ## Scientific methodology breakthrough This research establishes new standards for evolutionary biology studies by combining paleontological evidence with advanced genomic analysis. The integration of fossil data with modern DNA sequencing techniques created a more accurate evolutionary timeline. The methodology could be applied to study other mammalian groups, potentially reshaping our understanding of species origins and migrations. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/bats-first-originated-in-europe-65-million-years-ago-scientists-say/article71506978.ece — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._