Our Fishy Fingers
Introduction
The ability to hold on to our butts may have evolved from fish DNA, according to a recent study by Ars Technica. But how exactly did this gene activity develop, and what does it have to do with making digits? Let's dive into the details and discover the fascinating connection between our hands and fish.
Key Details
The study suggests that the genetic activity needed to create digits in humans may have originated from the development of a cloaca in fish. This is a common opening in fish used for reproduction, excretion, and digestion. In order to make digits, the same genes used to create the cloaca were repurposed, leading to the formation of fingers and toes. This process is known as gene duplication and diversification, and it is a critical step in the evolution of complex organisms.
Impact
This new research sheds light on the ways in which our bodies have evolved over millions of years. It shows that the building blocks for complex structures, such as our hands, may have originated from seemingly simple origins. By understanding the genetic processes that led to our current anatomy, we can gain a better understanding of our own bodies and how they came to be. So next time you use your hands, remember to thank fish for their contribution to our evolution - and hold on to your butts!
About the Organizations Mentioned
Ars Technica
Ars Technica is a prominent technology-focused website founded in 1998 by Ken Fisher and Jon Stokes, dedicated to delivering in-depth news, reviews, and analysis across technology, science, politics, and society. It was created to serve "alpha geeks" such as technologists and IT professionals by offering technically savvy, accurate, and engaging content beyond typical click-bait[2][3]. The site’s name, derived from Latin meaning "the art of technology," reflects its mission to blend detailed technical insight with accessible storytelling. Originally launched as a small endeavor by Fisher, who envisioned a platform for serious tech coverage when few existed, Ars Technica quickly grew into a limited liability company with a core team of editors and contributors by 2000[1]. Ars Technica distinguished itself early by pioneering digital subscription services starting in 2001—ahead of many digital media outlets—offering long-form content in downloadable formats like PDFs and eBooks. It was also among the first IT publications to cover Apple's resurgence and to analyze the cultural impact of gaming alongside technology[2]. In 2008, Ars Technica was acquired by Condé Nast Digital for $25 million, joining a portfolio including Wired and Reddit, which expanded its reach and resources. The company operates primarily on advertising revenue supplemented by paid subscriptions (Ars Pro), sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and branded merchandise. Subscription benefits include an ad-free experience, exclusive content, and community interaction[3][4]. Today, Ars Technica is recognized for its comprehensive technology journalism that balances breadth and depth, maintaining credibility and integrity while catering to a discerning audience of tech enthusiasts and professionals worldwide. It operates with a distributed staff across major US cities and London, continuing to innovate in tech media[3][2].
