No, humans will not evolve to breathe underwater in a short period.
While the idea of humans evolving the ability to breathe underwater is a popular theme in science fiction, the reality, based on current scientific understanding, is far more complex. The reference provided states that evolving the ability to live underwater took millions of years. Even with examples like the Bajau Laut, also known as sea nomads, who have adapted to hold their breath for extended periods, it is still "biologically impossible to evolve (or devolve) to live underwater in a short period". This suggests that the evolutionary changes required for humans to breathe underwater are extensive and would require immense spans of time.
Here's a breakdown:
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Timescale: Evolution towards aquatic life is a process that takes millions of years.
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Adaptation vs. Evolution: The Bajau Laut demonstrate adaptation, not full evolution into aquatic beings. Their adaptations allow them to hold their breath longer, but they still require air and cannot live exclusively underwater.
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Biological Complexity: Gaining the ability to breathe underwater would require significant physiological changes, such as:
- Developing gills.
- Modifying the respiratory system.
- Adapting to pressure changes.
- Potentially altering skin structure.
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Impossibility in a Short Period: According to the reference, it is biologically impossible for humans to evolve the ability to live underwater in a short time.
In conclusion, while humans may eventually evolve towards a more aquatic existence, it is an extremely slow process, requiring millions of years, making it practically impossible within any timeframe relevant to human civilization as we understand it.
