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Dolphins Could Have Dominated Earth with Opposable Thumbs

4/22/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A study published in Nature Ecology and Evolution argues that dolphins could have become Earth's dominant species if they had evolved opposable thumbs.
Researchers say dolphins developed larger brains over time to meet the demands of their complex social structures, a trajectory similar to humans.
Lead researcher Susanne Shultz notes that without dexterous hands, dolphins cannot create advanced tools or technologies.

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Story summary

A study published in Nature Ecology and Evolution argues that dolphins could have become Earth's dominant species if they had evolved opposable thumbs.
Researchers say dolphins developed larger brains over time to meet the demands of their complex social structures, a trajectory similar to humans.
Lead researcher Susanne Shultz notes that without dexterous hands, dolphins cannot create advanced tools or technologies.