Academics made the discovery as part of a research project investigating the ancestral origins of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes Covid-19. Previous research has identified horseshoe bats as a reservoir of coronaviruses and the likely original source of SARS-CoV-2. Scroll down for videoPrevious research has identified horseshoe bats as a reservoir of coronaviruses and the likely original source of SARS-CoV-2. Analysis of these sections reveals SARS-CoV-2 and its closest relative in bats, called RaTG13, share a common ancestor. Scientists led by the Pennsylvania State University compared the Covid-causing pathogen to its closest relatives found in horseshoe bats (pictured).

Source: Daily Mail July 28, 2020 15:45 UTC