Humanity’s reign as Earth’s dominant species has always seemed invincible, but what if it isn’t? As history reminds us, no species holds the throne forever. In light of growing global crises, scientists are exploring the chilling question: which species would rise if humans went extinct? One answer stands out, and it’s not the cockroach, as many might think.
A Surprising Contender
According to Professor Tim Coulson, a zoologist at Oxford University, the octopus might be humanity’s successor. “Octopuses are among the most intelligent, adaptable, and resourceful creatures on Earth,” Coulson explains. Their unique neural structure, decentralized nervous system, and problem-solving capabilities set them apart. Unlike primates, which share our vulnerabilities, octopuses could thrive in our absence. If we were to go extinct, the reason we would have would probably do in apes, too.
Intelligence Beneath the Waves
The octopus’s intelligence is nothing short of remarkable. They solve puzzles, use tools, and even communicate through color changes. Coulson speculates that, given millions of years, octopuses could develop underwater civilizations. “Their adaptability could lead them to construct underwater communities resembling cities we see on land,” he says.
Evolution in Action
For octopuses to truly dominate, evolution would need to take a significant leap, including humans going totally extinct. Coulson envisions them eventually venturing onto land, akin to how humans transitioned from water to terrestrial life. “It may take hundreds of thousands or even millions of years, but with evolutionary advances, they could hunt terrestrial animals,” he theorizes.
Another Expected but Unlikely Successor
Initially, one might assume primates, our closest relatives, would take over. However, their shared vulnerabilities with humans—disease, climate threats, and habitat loss—might render them extinct alongside us. “Their similarities to humans are both their strength and their downfall,” Coulson points out.
What About Cockroaches
The enduring myth of cockroaches taking over stems from their incredible resilience. While they might survive a nuclear fallout, they lack the cognitive abilities to create civilizations or innovate in ways that could replicate human dominance.
The Role of Random Evolution
While octopuses are strong candidates, Coulson emphasizes that evolution is unpredictable. “Random mutations, unforeseen extinction events, and population bottlenecks could significantly alter evolutionary paths,” he notes. It’s possible another species entirely, perhaps one not yet on our radar, could rise to dominance. All of this of course, being dependant on humans going extinct. We are the dominant species for many reasons, and that won’t end until we are gone.
Could Robots Overtake Biology?
An alternative theory suggests artificial intelligence might outlive its creators. However, Coulson believes that even advanced AI would require a stable environment and maintenance, which might not be feasible in a post-human world.
The Uncertain Future of Earth
While no one can predict the future with certainty, the idea of octopuses inheriting Earth offers a fascinating glimpse into life after humanity. Whether it’s through evolution, adaptation, or sheer resilience, life will find a way to persist. As Coulson puts it, “Life will likely persist on Earth for another billion years. What form it takes is up to the forces of evolution”. Could octopuses rule the seas and eventually the land? Only time—and perhaps a few million years—will tell.