First-Ever Crocodile Virgin Birth Could Lead Scientists to New Methods of Conservation and Preservation

 

In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have recorded the first ever crocodile virgin birth at a reptile park in Costa Rica. A female American crocodile named Coquita, isolated for 16 years, was found with a clutch of 14 eggs, a phenomenon known as facultative parthenogenesis (FP). This type of asexual reproduction, previously observed in birds, sharks, lizards, and snakes, has been documented in the Crocodilia order for the first time. Seven of the 14 eggs were viable, but none hatched, with one containing a fully formed but non-viable fetus almost genetically identical to the mother. This discovery and the known occurrence of FP in birds suggest a common evolutionary origin, potentially shedding light on the reproductive capabilities of extinct archosaurian relatives of crocodilians, including dinosaurs and pterosaurs.

Dr. Warren Booth, a researcher, parthenogenesis expert, and co-author of the crocodile virgin birth study, noted that the complex mechanism deployed to create the conditions, in this case, were likely inherited from the crocodile’s far distant relatives, the dinosaurs.

Scientists frequently turn to nature for learnings that help reshape man’s understanding of its environment, the potential to solve problems and find medical cures. Where will this latest discovery take the scientific world?

Leslie Samuel, Founder and Creator at Interactive Biology, shared his excitement about this first-of-its-kind crocodile virgin birth discovery and hinted at some of the intriguing possibilities that could domino off of further research into crocodile facultative parthenogenesis.

 

Leslie’s Thoughts:

“Scientists have discovered the first ever virgin birth in crocodiles. You heard that right, a virgin birth. Now this isn’t the first time this has been observed. It’s been seen in birds, sharks, and even lizards. This fascinating phenomenon is called facultative parthenogenesis. It’s when a species that typically reproduces sexually will reproduce asexually. But this is the first time it’s ever been seen in crocodiles. Now, I know what you’re thinking. What in the world does this mean? And that’s precisely what scientists are trying to figure out. Is it possible that other species can reproduce by facultative parthenogenesis that we never knew about? Is this a way for some species on the brink of extinction to still reproduce? If it is possible for reproduction to happen even in isolation, does this open new avenues for how we approach conservation and preserving biodiversity? Also, does this give us insight into how other extinct reptiles, like dinosaurs, how they reproduced?

This could transform the way we think about life and survival strategies in these ancient creatures. I believe this is a whole new realm of biology just waiting to be explored.”

 

Article written by James Kent.

Follow us on social media for the latest updates in B2B!

Image

Latest

DisruptED in Advanced Manufacturing: The Bridgestone Story with Will Robbins Pt. 1
February 14, 2025

The automotive world is seeing some unprecedented change, and the tire industry is no exception. As electric vehicles (EVs) grow in popularity, sustainability is a major concern. With new mobility trends emerging, companies like Bridgestone are at the forefront of innovation. Additionally, with the popularity of vehicles on the road being fitted with Bridgestone or…

Read More
advanced manufacturing
Female Leaders in the DisruptED World of Advanced Manufacturing with Rachel Potee
February 14, 2025

The manufacturing industry is undergoing rapid transformation, with automation, AI, and cutting-edge technology redefining how products are made and distributed. Despite these advancements, one challenge remains: gender diversity. Women still hold a disproportionately low number of leadership positions in manufacturing, making stories of female leaders all the more essential. In fact, according to a…

Read More
Co-Sell Connection 2025
Verizon Partner Network Co-Sell Connection 2025 Kick Off
February 13, 2025

The Co-Sell Connection 2025 webinar kicked off with a warm welcome from the host, Cesar Turan. The series aims to spotlight Verizon products and solutions and provide insights from top thought leaders to help navigate the evolving business landscape. Key Speakers and Topics In this session, Verizon’s partner leadership team, including Martina the Channel…

Read More
Financial Advisor
The Must-Have Financial Advisor Tech for 2025
February 13, 2025

The financial advisory industry is undergoing rapid technological change, with AI-driven tools, alternative investments, and social-driven platforms reshaping the landscape. With rapid advancements in fintech, advisors are under increasing pressure to integrate cutting-edge technology into their practice. But with so many options, which tools are truly game-changing, and which are overhyped? A critical resource…

Read More