Humanoid Evolution: Dragon-Like Adaptability & Development

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In summary, the conversation discusses the characteristics of the humanoid species on the planet Kepler Bb, which is four times the size of Earth and has a thicker atmosphere. There are also four moons and a double binary star system. The humanoids have the ability to evolve into different species, such as reptilian, bird-men, bear-men, and others. The conversation then delves into the potential evolution and development of a dragon-like humanoid, discussing its abilities and physical changes. The concept of the planet's increased gravity is also mentioned and debated in relation to the humanoid's abilities and physical structure.
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Currently my humanoids have powers in their genetics but they all appear similar for a given gender, age, and height.

My humanoids are 4 times as tall as a human and live on an earth-like planet that is 4 times bigger than earth(the size of neptune), and has 4 times as thick of an atmosphere for all layers. This planet has 4 moons and orbits a double binary star(a type of quadruple star that is made up of 2 binary stars) The planet is called Kepler Bb(like B flat in music).

But they can evolve into reptilian species, bird-men, bear-men, and other species of humanoid.

Now I know that there can be multiple paths that lead to the same result but let's say that a humanoid evolves into a reptilian species. Each reptilian species has different degrees of adaptation with snake-like species having the highest ability to adapt and crocodilian-like species having the least ability to adapt. Dragon-like humanoids are 1 exception to this in that they can adapt to any environment even though they are most closely related to lizard-like humanoids which don't have as much ability to adapt.

Ability to adapt from greatest to least:

Dragon-like -> Snake-like -> Lizard-like -> Turtle-like -> Tortoise-like -> Crocodilian-like

Let's say that the humanoid is dragon-like.

Now how would it likely evolve that way?

Like this?

Common ancestor -> Cold-blooded -> Scales -> 2 extra limbs halfway between the 2 existing sets of limbs -> Wings -> Scales get thicker -> Ability to metabolize any living thing dead or alive

Or some other way?

And how would it develop?

Like this?

Big egg -> Hatch -> Walks on 4 legs -> The back legs grow longer than the front legs -> Wings start growing -> Dragon-specific abilities like fire breath develop -> Can't fly anymore if it is a huge species but can still fly if it is a smaller species

or some other way?

And how can I apply these ideas to the other species like bird-men and bear-men and how they would evolve and develop?
 
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  • #2
caters said:
My humanoids are 4 times as tall as a human and live on an earth-like planet that is 4 times bigger than earth(the size of neptune)
Surface gravity increases linearly with radius, so Kepler Bb will have Earth 4Gs at the surface.
Your humans, if their bodies are scaled up proportionally, will mass 64 times an Earth human (4x4x4).
This means your humans' legs are supporting 256 times the weight (per unit surface area of bones) of an Earth human.

This is a major problem. Your Keplerians are, even naked, holding up a similar weight to an Earth human having to support a 15 ton weight.

This is known as Galileo's Square-Cube Law:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Square-cube_law#Biomechanics
 
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  • #3
I consider gravity in categorising a planet as Earth-like as well as liquid water, atmosphere, and other things. Also this is fiction so the gravity can be 1G in my story even if it would be 4G in real life.
 
  • #4
caters said:
Also this is fiction so the gravity can be 1G in my story even if it would be 4G in real life.
Calling it fiction isn't license to break natural laws. But calling it fantasy is. :smile: It can still be space-based, but you're free from the requirement to stick to plausible behavior.

OK, Kepler Bb is a 1G, your Keplerians are only supporting 64 times as much weight on their legs as humans do. Keplerians will need to be built with legs like an elephant's to support the weight.

Unless, as before, you waive any semblance to science. Gulliver's Travels was a very entertaining story that did not burden itself with the problems of a 80 foot tall human.
 
  • #5
caters said:
I consider gravity in categorising a planet as Earth-like as well as liquid water, atmosphere, and other things. Also this is fiction so the gravity can be 1G in my story even if it would be 4G in real life.

More like fantasy. However, you are free to do what you like. You will just be alienating a significant segment of science fiction readers if your worlds are not even remotely realistic.

So to answer your original question, almost assuredly they can't. What you propose is much too far out of the ballpark of reality.
 

1. What evidence supports the idea of humanoid evolution towards dragon-like adaptability?

There are several lines of evidence that support the idea of humanoid evolution towards dragon-like adaptability. First, there is evidence of convergent evolution, where different species develop similar traits due to similar environmental pressures. This can be seen in various species of animals that have developed wings, scales, and other dragon-like features. Additionally, there is evidence of genetic mutations that could lead to the development of dragon-like traits in humans, as seen in the presence of the gene for wings in some individuals. Finally, there is evidence from the fossil record that shows a gradual evolution towards dragon-like features in certain hominid species.

2. How does the concept of natural selection play a role in the development of dragon-like adaptability in humans?

Natural selection is a key factor in the development of any species, including humans. In the case of dragon-like adaptability, natural selection would favor individuals with certain traits, such as enhanced strength, agility, and resilience, that would allow them to survive and thrive in a harsh environment. Over time, these traits would become more prominent in the population, leading to the development of dragon-like adaptability in humans.

3. What potential benefits could come from humans evolving towards a dragon-like form?

The potential benefits of humans evolving towards a dragon-like form are numerous. One of the most significant benefits would be improved survival in harsh environments, such as extreme heat or cold. Additionally, the development of wings and the ability to fly would greatly increase mobility and access to resources. The presence of scales could also provide protection from predators and environmental hazards. Lastly, the increased strength, agility, and resilience associated with dragon-like adaptability could greatly enhance overall physical abilities.

4. Are there any potential drawbacks to humans evolving towards a dragon-like form?

While the idea of humans evolving towards a dragon-like form may seem appealing, there are also potential drawbacks to consider. One potential issue could be the loss of certain human traits, such as complex language and fine motor skills, as these may not be as necessary in a dragon-like form. Additionally, there could be societal and ethical concerns surrounding the use of dragon-like abilities, such as flight and fire-breathing, in everyday life.

5. Is there any scientific evidence that supports the possibility of humans evolving towards a dragon-like form in the future?

At this time, there is no conclusive scientific evidence that supports the idea of humans evolving towards a dragon-like form in the future. However, it is important to note that evolution is an ongoing process and can lead to unexpected changes in a species over time. With advances in genetic engineering and other technologies, it is not entirely impossible that humans could eventually develop dragon-like traits. However, this is still a topic of speculation and would require further research and evidence to be considered a possibility.

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