Modern penguins are believed to have evolved from a common ancestor that lived around 60 million years ago, shortly after the extinction of the dinosaurs. Fossil evidence suggests that their evolutionary roots are primarily in the Southern Hemisphere, particularly in regions like Antarctica and South America.
The evolutionary history of penguins indicates that they adapted to life in aquatic environments, leading to their unique flightless condition. Fossil records show that several ancient species of penguins existed, with some adapted to different climatic conditions and habitats. Over time, modern penguins diversified into the various species we see today, such as the Emperor, King, and Adélie penguins, primarily spread across the Southern Hemisphere.
The current distribution of penguins includes Antarctica, sub-Antarctic islands, and other temperate regions, showcasing their adaptation to cold marine environments. Thus, all modern penguins share a common evolutionary pathway originating in the Southern Hemisphere.
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