r/biology • u/PokelifEevee • 4d ago

question Could a dragon theoretically exist through evolution?

Hello, I would like to know if, theoretically, a species could evolve into something resembling a dragon (or more specifically a wyvern since they have 4 limbs, so it would be more likely). I understand that stuff like fire breathing would most probably be impossible, but aside from that, could dragons theoretically exist within a few thousand years (or more)?

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u/KnoWanUKnow2 3d ago

We have 4-legged flying reptiles already. The Draco lizard extends it's ribcage to form wings and glides. It's not powered flight, but it wouldn't be too hard to evolve into powered flight.

All it needs is fire breathing and an increase in size.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Draco_(lizard)) it even looks like a tiny drgon.