Divergent mechanics of inner ear morphogenesis are coupled to developmental tempo over vertebrate evolution

Abstract Vertebrate embryos vary in size and developmental tempo based on reproductive strategies; however, organs of ancient origin, such as the eye and inner ear, remain highly conserved in structure and function. How both diverse embryonic traits and conserved organ development occur remains unclear. Here, we identify divergent morphogenetic mechanics of inner ear development, particularly in vesicular primordium expansion, in 12 species representing the major vertebrate lineages. Differences in cell volume regulation determine tissue growth mechanics, which diversify the expansion process but yield a conserved morphological outcome. Heterochronic shifts in organogenesis allow this regulation to evolve in coordination with a prolonged developmental period. These findings suggest that alternative morphogenetic mechanics mitigate the effects of diversified embryonic traits, thereby ensuring consistent morphological outcomes for highly conserved organs.