Experts have identified the animal that would rule Earth if humans went extinct, due to its remarkable adaptability and resilience.
Scientists have been studying what could happen to Earth if humans were to disappear.
A recent discussion has focused on octopuses, the fascinating sea creatures known for their intelligence and unique abilities.
Experts believe that if humans were to go extinct, octopuses might become the dominant species on the planet.
The unique abilities of octopuses
Octopuses are remarkable animals.
They have eight flexible limbs, which allow them to manipulate objects with great skill.
Their dexterity is one of the reasons scientists think they could evolve into a more advanced species.
Unlike many other animals, octopuses can solve complex problems and show signs of curiosity.
They have been observed using tools and even escaping from aquariums, showcasing their impressive intelligence.
Professor Tim Coulson, a leading scientist from the University of Oxford, explains that octopuses have the potential to create a new civilization.
Their ability to communicate and adapt makes them well-suited for surviving in a changing world.
He notes that if conditions were right, octopuses could develop complex tools and possibly build underwater cities.
What would happen if humans went extinct?
If humans were to vanish, whether due to climate change, war, or other disasters, the Earth would change significantly.
Many species would struggle to survive in such a scenario. However, octopuses could take advantage of the new opportunities that would arise.
Their natural ability to thrive in various marine environments gives them a strong chance of adapting and evolving.
Unlike primates, who are often considered the closest relatives to humans, octopuses do not rely on social structures.
Many primates live in tight-knit groups and depend on each other for survival.
If humans were to disappear, primates might face extinction due to their vulnerabilities.
In contrast, octopuses are solitary creatures, which may give them an advantage in a post-human world.
Experts also indicated the potential for evolution
Professor Coulson mentions that while octopuses are not likely to become land animals, they could develop ways to spend more time outside of water.
For instance, they might evolve breathing mechanisms similar to SCUBA gear, allowing them to hunt on land.
This could lead to new hunting techniques and ways of life that we cannot yet imagine.
The professor emphasizes that evolution is unpredictable.
While octopuses have the qualities that suggest they could thrive, the future remains uncertain.
Many factors can affect the path of evolution, including random mutations and environmental changes.
Therefore, while octopuses seem like strong candidates, it is impossible to know for sure what will happen.
Scientists have considered other creatures as potential successors to humans.
Birds like crows and parrots are highly intelligent and can build complex nests.
Insects also show remarkable abilities, with some species constructing intricate structures. However, these animals lack the dexterity that octopuses possess.
Without the ability to manipulate their environment effectively, they may not be able to develop a civilization like humans did.
Similarly, while primates have been seen as the natural heirs to human intelligence, their survival is also in question.
Many primates face similar dangers as humans, such as habitat loss and climate change.
Their slow reproductive rates and reliance on social groups could hinder their ability to adapt to a new world without humans.