Fossil evidence favors a role for vision in the modular evolution of the primate neocortex

A study published in Science in August 2026 examines fossil evidence regarding the evolution of the primate neocortex. The research focuses on the modular structure of the primate brain and the role that vision plays in its development. Fossil findings suggest that the development of visual capabilities had a significant impact on shaping the structure of the neocortex. The modular organization of the primate brain appears to be closely linked to the evolution of the visual system. These findings contribute to understanding the evolutionary processes that led to the development of the primate brain. The research combines paleontological data with insights from modern neurobiology.