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Vertebrates
The majority of our research projects explore the evolutionary histories of organisms and how they have been influenced by environmental changes, to elucidate genetic processes that determine shape differences among closely related species, and to investigate whether natural populations have developed genetic adaptations to overcome the consequences of environmental pollution.
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The Goyet Dog
Dogs have been man’s best friend for ages. They provide company, help with the hunt, function as guard dogs and sometimes help herding cattle. In some cultures, they even serve as a source of food and clothing. Paleontologist Mietje Germonpre discusses her research into the domestication of dogs and the Goyet dog skull, the oldest dog skull known to date.
The Goyet Dog
The Goyet skull
The topic was further researched by means of a number of skulls from fossilized canines, coming from the caves of Goyet in the province of Namur. This material was dug up in the 1860s by Edouard Dupont, former director of our Museum. It has been part of the Institute’s collections ever since.
Science news
Geostationary satellites can be pointed permanently at the same point on earth, and can make measurements before or after clouds pass over. For marine scientists using this data, this will be an enormous progress in our ability to monitor the oceans.