There’s a good reason why snakes make people jump – the human ability for close observation has evolved specifically to detect reptiles.
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(Photo: snakegetters.com) |
Humans, monkeys, and other primates have a strong ability to distinguish colors, a large brain, and the use of their vision to grasp objects.
While some scientists believe these traits evolved simultaneously to help ancient primates use their hands and eyes for gathering fruits and other foods, Lynne Isbell, an anthropology professor at the University of California, argues that these abilities arose to help primates avoid snakes.
“Snakes are the only predators you need to look at closely. If they are far away, they are not dangerous,” Isbell stated.
Neuroscientific studies have shown that the brain’s visual structure appears to be closely connected to the brain structures involved in vigilance, fear, and learning.
Mammals evolved about 100 million years ago, and fossilized snakes with large mouths to consume these animals also emerged around the same time.
Other predators like tigers, hawks, and eagles evolved later. Venomous snakes developed around 60 million years ago, forcing primates to evolve better detection skills.
“There is an evolutionary arms race between predators and prey. Primates are getting better at detecting and avoiding snakes, so snakes are becoming more sophisticated at hiding or more venomous, prompting primates to develop new responses,” Isbell explained.
The only lemurs living on the island of Madagascar have very poor eyesight due to the absence of venomous snakes there.
M.T
