Descent into Carnivory - Large Vertebrate Suspension-Feeding Evolution in the Mesozoic

Explore the fascinating evolution of large vertebrate suspension-feeding in this 52-minute lecture presented by Dr. Jeff Liston from Utrecht University. Delve into the ancient world of pachycormids, a group of bony fishes that dominated the suspension-feeding niche during the Mesozoic era. Learn how these creatures, exemplified by the massive Leedsichthys, paralleled the gigantism of sauropod dinosaurs. Discover the latest research findings from the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology, revealing the decline of suspension-feeding pachycormids and their unexpected return to carnivory after 100 million years. Compare these ancient filter-feeders to modern counterparts like whales and large sharks, gaining insights into the long-term evolution of this specialized feeding strategy.