An international research team led by the University of Liège has made significant findings on saber-toothed cat evolution using advanced 3D scanning and analysis.

The study discovered a form continuum between modern small cats and extinct saber-toothed species, challenging the notion of distinctly different cranial shapes.

Initial stages of saber-toothed species evolution show accelerated morphological changes with a particular reduction in craniomandibular integration, suggesting higher adaptability and diversification.

Research indicates that saber-toothed cats often quickly moved into specialized ecological niches, which may have increased their vulnerability to extinction.

Findings provide deeper insight into the evolutionary history of feline predators and inform on potential future ecosystem changes.