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Transitional Fossils

Transitional fossils are the remains of organisms that show traits common to both ancient ancestors and their more modern descendants, illustrating evolutionary changes over time. For example, fossils of the Archaeopteryx show features of both dinosaurs and birds, highlighting the transition from reptiles to avians. These fossils provide important evidence for the theory of evolution, demonstrating how species adapt and develop new characteristics. By studying transitional fossils, scientists gain insights into the evolutionary history of life on Earth, showcasing the gradual changes that occur over millions of years.