Ancient Fossil Octopus: New Findings Reveal Multiple Species Identified

Posted on April 8, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Paulsepia mazonensis has captivated the scientific community as a cephalopod species first identified in 2000 from a remarkable 300-million-year-old specimen. This fascinating creature has earned a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the world’s oldest octopus. Recent research has led to its reclassification as a distant relative of the nautilus, offering new insights into the timeline of octopus evolution, according to paleontologists.

Depiction of old cadmus collapse in the Mason Creek Basin, highlighting various Mason Creek fauna, including the polychaete Esconites zelus and the elasmobranch shark Bandringa rayi. Image credit: Franz Anthony.

Originally described from isolated siderite concretions, Paulsepia mazonensis has been recognized as the oldest known octopus, predating earlier estimates by over 150 million years. This revelation raises significant questions regarding our comprehension of cephalopod evolution, according to Dr. Thomas Clements, a paleontologist from the universities of Leicester and Reading.

This intriguing fossil from the Late Carboniferous Maisonkrieg Lagerstätte (311 to 360 million years ago) possesses distinct features, including a ‘sack-like’ fused head and mantle, symmetrical fins, and a pair of eyespots, alongside arms and specialized tentacles, yet lacks evidence for an inner or outer shell.

In a recent comprehensive study, researchers revisited this enigmatic fossil alongside several new specimens.

Employing advanced analytical methods, they uncovered a previously unrecognized radula, the toothed tongue characteristic of most molluscs.

Analysis of the alveolar bone suggests that Paulsepia mazonensis is more aligned with the shelled nautilus than previously thought.

This organism experienced significant decomposition prior to fossilization, leading to its ambiguous classification for decades.

“We conclude that Paulsepia mazonensis is synonymous with the Old Cadmus poli, based on morphological evidence,” the researchers confirmed.

This reinterpretation resolves a longstanding mystery regarding octopus evolution and unveils the oldest preserved nautilus soft tissue ever documented.

Through synchrotron micro-X-ray fluorescence elemental mapping, the team identified dental ossicles concealed within the concrete matrix of Paulsepia mazonensis.

The morphology of radial elements indicates that Paulsepia mazonensis does not correspond to coronal octamers but represents the oldest soft-tissue nautilus fossil discovered to date.

This reclassification challenges the Paleozoic origin of octopuses, further supporting a mid/late Mesozoic origin for crown octopuses while diminishing the credibility of the colloid affinity related to controversial Cambrian soft-bodied fossils like Nectocaris pterix.

The findings accentuate the complexities in interpreting exceptionally preserved soft tissue at the Masonkrieg Lagerstätte and underscore the necessity for thorough reevaluation of enigmatic consolidated soft-bodied fossil materials.

The team’s research paper has been published today in Proceedings of the Royal Society B.

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Thomas Clements et al. 2026. Synchrotron data reveals characteristics of nautiloids Paulsepia mazonensis refuting the Paleozoic origin of octopods. Proc Biol Sci 293 (2068): 20252369; doi: 10.1098/rspb.2025.2369

Source: www.sci.news

China’s Ediacaran Fossil Reshapes Understanding of Animal Evolution Timeline

Posted on April 7, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

New research reveals that a remarkable collection of over 700 Ediacaran fossils from the late Ediacaran period indicates that significant animal groups, including the early ancestors of vertebrates, began diversifying millions of years earlier than previously believed.

Restoration of the Egawa biota. Image credit: Xiaodong Wang.

The Ediacaran-Cambrian transition marked one of the most crucial turning points in Earth’s biological history.

However, the fossil evidence presents a fragmented view of this significant change, as Ediacaran biological communities are quite different from those of the Cambrian, leaving key moments of evolution elusive.

Dr. Gaorong Li from the University of Oxford states, “Our findings bridge a critical gap in the narrative of early animal diversification.”

“For the first time, we show that complex organisms typically associated with the Cambrian existed during the Ediacaran, indicating they evolved much earlier than fossil records previously suggested.”

In their study, Li and colleagues analyzed over 700 specimens from recently identified fossils in Yunnan province, China.

This fossil group, dating back 554 to 539 million years, is part of the intriguing Egawa biota.

Unlike many Ediacaran fossil sites that predominantly showcase traces of life on sandstone, these fossils are preserved as carbonaceous membranes, mirroring preservation styles found in renowned Cambrian sites like Canada’s Burgess Shale.

Dr. Luke Parry from the University of Oxford commented, “This groundbreaking discovery offers insight into a transitional phase in biological communities. The unique characteristics of Ediacaran life paved the way for the recognizable groups we categorize today.”

“Upon first examining these specimens, we recognized their uniqueness and the unexpected nature of our findings.”

The fossil group includes some of the earliest known relatives of deuterostomes, a category which now encompasses humans and vertebrates such as fish.

Among the specimens are ancestors of modern starfish alongside their close relative, the acorn worm (Ambulacraria), characterized by a U-shaped body attached to the seafloor with a stalk and tentacles for food capture.

Dr. Frankie Dunn from the University of Oxford noted, “It’s captivating that such exotic organisms thrived during the Ediacaran period.”

“We’ve discovered fossils that are distant relatives of starfish and sea cucumbers, and the search for more continues.”

The bicephalic fossils from the Egawa biota suggest that chordates (animals with backbones) also existed during this period.

Other noteworthy discoveries among the fossils include worm-like bilateral animals featuring complex feeding adaptations, as well as rare specimens believed to be early comb jellies.

Many specimens display unique anatomical features that do not correspond to any known Ediacaran or Cambrian species.

Dr. Ross Anderson from the University of Oxford stated, “Our findings suggest that the apparent scarcity of these complex faunas in other Ediacaran sites may highlight preservation discrepancies rather than an actual lack of diversity.”

“Carbonaceous compactions like those found in Egawa are uncommon in rocks of this age, indicating that similar communities may remain unpreserved elsewhere.”

For more on this pivotal discovery, refer to the research paper published in Science.

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Gaorong Li et al. 2026. Dawn of the Phanerozoic: The late Ediacaran transitional fauna of southwestern China. Science 392 (6793): 63-68; doi: 10.1126/science.adu2291

Source: www.sci.news

Discovering a Jurassic Ichthyosaur Fossil: A Major Find in Cuba

Posted on April 4, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Discovering the Most Complete Ichthyosaur Skeleton in Cuba

An ophthalmosaurid ichthyosaur. Image credit: Dmitri Bogdanov / CC BY 3.0.

Paleontologists recently unearthed the most complete **ichthyosaur skeleton** ever found in western Cuba, deep within a **limestone cave**. This significant discovery was made in 2023 at the river cave known as **El Cuajani**, part of the Viñales Geopark and National Park.

The exposed skeletal remains feature a **U-curved vertebral column**, multiple associated ribs, isolated vertebrae, and a hindlimb.

“The specimen is preserved in rock slabs that form the ceiling of the river cave, specifically known as **Cueva del Ictiosario**, located approximately 60 meters from the entrance,” shared Dr. Manuel Iturralde Vinent from the Cuban Academy of Sciences, collaborating with experts from Cuba, Argentina, Poland, and the US.

This remarkable fossil dates back to the **Tithonian period** of the late Jurassic era, roughly **145 million years ago**. Previously, most records of Cuban ichthyosaurs were limited to older Oxford deposits.

“This fossil stands out as the most complete ichthyosaur retrieved from Cuba,” the paleontologists remarked. “It significantly extends the temporal record of **island ichthyosaurs**, which previously only included the Oxford specimen.”

Partial skeleton of El Cuajani ichthyosaur. Image credit: Iturralde-Vinent et al., doi: 10.1080/02724634.2025.2609717.

The **El Cuajani ichthyosaur**, as researchers have informally dubbed it, has yet to be classified into a specific species, but its anatomical features suggest connections to the **Ophthalmosauridae** family.

“The morphology of the hind limbs resembles that of Tithonian **platypterigin ophthalmosaurids**, such as Caprisaurus bonapartei and Aegylosaurus leptospondylus,” they explained.

Scientists believe this ancient creature thrived in **deep ocean** environments. The **Caribbean Seaway** served as a vital oceanic corridor, linking distant regions of the Jurassic world.

“The Caribbean Seaway played a crucial role in promoting the dispersal of marine species between Europe, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Pacific Ocean from the Late Jurassic,” the researchers stated.

“This corridor has a Triassic to early Jurassic heritage, rooted in the intercontinental rifts of Pangea, which should not be confused with the early Caribbean basin.”

“The El Cuajani ichthyosaur adds to the growing body of Tithonian ichthyosaur discoveries in this area, potentially enriching our understanding of the biogeographic history of this group,” the researchers concluded.

For further reading, refer to their research paper published in the February 6th issue of the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology.

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Manuel Iturralde-Vinent et al.. A partial skeleton of an ichthyosaur (Ophthalmosauridae) excavated from the Tithonian (late Jurassic period) in western Cuba. Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology published online on February 6, 2026. doi: 10.1080/02724634.2025.2609717

Source: www.sci.news

Stunning Fossil Discovery Challenges Timeline of Complex Animal Evolution

Posted on April 3, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

An artist’s reconstruction of an ancient marine ecosystem preserved in the Jiangchuan biota.

Wang Xiaodong

Recent discoveries of a vast array of exquisitely preserved fossils in China have led to new insights regarding the Cambrian Explosion, which is traditionally viewed as a rapid evolutionary event marking the emergence of complex life.

Spanning roughly 541 to 513 million years ago, the Cambrian Explosion is regarded as the period when most modern animal groups first appeared, alongside various now-extinct evolutionary experiments.

Previously, during the Ediacaran period, life was believed to be simpler. However, findings from a new fossil site in Yunnan, known as the Jiangchuan biota, challenge this view, presenting over 700 fossils dating back to 554 to 537 million years ago.

“Our findings indicate that Cambrian-like faunal assemblages did not appear out of nowhere but had a clear foundation and transitional morphology by the end of the Ediacaran,” states Gaorong Li, the lead researcher from Yunnan University, Kunming, China.

Ross Anderson, another team member and professor at the University of Oxford, noted that the surprisingly intricate nature of the fossils raises intriguing questions about whether the Cambrian explosion was a gradual process.

“We are beginning to construct a more complex understanding of the origins and timing of the explosion in animal diversity,” Anderson explains.

When Lee initiated investigations at the site in mid-2022, he anticipated finding algae.

Instead, researchers uncovered a variety of organisms called bilaterians, characterized by bilateral symmetry. Only a limited number of such specimens had previously been found during the Ediacaran; among these are two new species of deuterostomes, a key group that includes vertebrates, suggesting that this group was already diverse long before the Cambrian.

Cambroelnid fossil from the Jiangchuan biota and artist’s reconstruction.

Li Gaolong & Wang Xiaodong

Some fossils were identified as Cambroelniids, featuring coiled bodies and long, tentacle-like appendages not previously documented before the Cambrian period. Others closely resemble Cambrian creatures such as Margaretia, which resembles a tubular structure with an opening, creating the appearance of an organism living within a ventilation pipe, according to Lee.

Lee noted that the most common fossils discovered were animals with tubular appendages anchored to the seafloor, extending outward in search of sustenance—some reminiscent of sandworms depicted in the sci-fi series Dune.

“This indicates that these animals lived attached to the ocean floor while extending structures for foraging,” Lee explained. “Additionally, a species resembling a sausage-shaped worm with a short, thick, curved body displayed clear locomotion.”

Ultimately, these peculiar yet familiar organisms may represent “evolutionary experiments” from a period when life was exploring various body designs and ecological strategies.

“Although these creatures exhibit key features found in modern animals, like a mouth, intestine, proboscis, and pharynx, their structural arrangements differ considerably from those of contemporary animals,” Lee remarked. “In essence, their overall morphology is unusual, yet they possess fundamental biological modules common to modern fauna.”

Joe Moishuk from the Manitoba Museum states that the sudden appearance of numerous animal body plans in the early Cambrian fossil record has posed a longstanding dilemma for paleontologists.

“Strong evidence suggests that their ancestral forms should have been identified earlier, in the Ediacaran, while indications of this lineage have been accumulating over recent decades,” Moisiuk notes.

“Although the specimens are somewhat poorly preserved and missing certain details, several distinctly animal-like forms emerge.”

These fossils imply the existence of certain animal groups prior to the Cambrian; however, they do not contradict the occurrence of a Cambrian explosion, he asserts.

“Instead, the divergence of animal body plans likely unfolded over approximately 30 million years across the Ediacaran-Cambrian boundary, providing a clearer temporal constraint on the genesis of this evolutionary radiation.”

Han Zeng, a professor at the Chinese Academy of Sciences not involved in the study, underscored that finding complex animal fossils in pre-Cambrian sediments would signify a major advancement in paleontology.

“Over recent decades, a diverse array of carbonaceous fossils has emerged from similarly dated Late Precambrian shales in southern China. While most have been classified as algae or cyanobacteria, other specimens possess ambiguous animal characteristics,” Zeng elaborates. “Future research is crucial to clarify the biological relationships of these fossils. Should they prove to be animals, they could drastically alter our understanding of early animal evolution.”

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500 Million-Year-Old Fossil Discovered as the Oldest Chelate: A Groundbreaking Paleontological Find

Posted on April 2, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Harvard University paleontologists have identified a large predatory arthropod from the mid-Cambrian period in Utah, known as Megachelyserax custoi. Distinguished by its impressive three-pronged chelicerae, this soft-bodied creature pushes back the lineage of spiders, scorpions, horseshoe crabs, and sea spiders by 20 million years, making it the oldest known member of the chelicerate family.

The intricate anatomy of Megachelyserax custoi. Image credit: Masato Hattori/Harvard University.

The fossil of Megachelyserax custoi was unearthed in the Middle Cambrian Wheeler Formation within the House Mountains of Utah.

Measuring just over 8 cm (3.1 inches) in length, this specimen features a preserved head shield and a nine-segmented dorsal exoskeleton.

These anatomical regions exhibit distinct appendages: the head shield contains six pairs of limbs tailored for feeding and sensory functions, while the underbody boasts plate-like respiratory structures akin to modern horseshoe crab gills.

One of its most remarkable characteristics is the chelicerae—pincer-like feeding appendages that are a defining feature of the chelicerate lineage and set spiders apart from insects.

Insects possess sensory antennae as their foremost appendages, while chelicerates are equipped with grasping features, often with venomous capabilities.

Despite the extensive fossil record from the Cambrian era, no other distinct chelicerae-bearing arthropods have been discovered until now.

Harvard paleontologist Rudy LeRochy-Aubril stated, “This fossil confirms that the Cambrian origins of chelicerates were already established 500 million years ago, showcasing anatomical designs seen in modern spiders and horseshoe crabs.”

Prior to this groundbreaking discovery, the earliest known chelidae dated back to the Early Ordovician Fezuata biota in Morocco, approximately 480 million years ago.

The existence of Megachelyserax custoi places it as an early branch in the chelicerate family tree, emerging 20 million years earlier than previously thought. It serves as a crucial transitional species between primitive Cambrian arthropods, which lacked chelicerae, and the more recent horseshoe crab-like chelicerates, referred to as syndiphosphrines.

According to Dr. Javier Ortega Hernández, also from Harvard University, “Megachelyserax custoi illustrates the evolution of chelicerae and the specialization of body regions occurring before the anterior appendages simplified into structures resembling contemporary spider legs.” He added, “This reconciles several competing evolutionary hypotheses, indicating that multiple theories may contain elements of truth.”

This fossil highlights a pivotal phase in the development of the scissor-like body plan, indicating that integral features began evolving shortly after the Cambrian Explosion, a period recognized for its rapid evolutionary advancements.

Dr. Ortega-Hernández remarked, “By the mid-Cambrian era, when evolutionary rates were notably elevated, arthropods exhibiting anatomical complexity similar to modern species were already populating the oceans.” Interestingly, this early development of complex anatomy did not lead to immediate ecological advantages or diversification.

“Chelodons remained relatively obscure for millions of years, overshadowed by simpler groups like trilobites, until they adapted to terrestrial life,” he added.

Dr. Lerosy-Aubril concluded, “This discovery emphasizes that biological innovation is insufficient for evolutionary success; timing and environmental conditions play crucial roles.”

The findings regarding Megachelyserax custoi are detailed in a study published in the journal Nature.

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R. Lerosy-Aubril & J. Ortega-Hernandez. Arthropods with chelicerates reveal a Cambrian origin of chelicerates. Nature published online on April 1, 2026. doi: 10.1038/s41586-026-10284-2

Source: www.sci.news

Fossil Evidence Reveals Tyrannosaurus Attack on Duck-Billed Dinosaur

Posted on March 23, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Discover the Semi-completed Skull of an Adult Edmontosaurus – A captivating snapshot from the Late Cretaceous period, preserved at the Montana State Museum of the Rockies, showcases a dramatic encounter where a Tyrannosaurus rex attacks a duck-billed dinosaur.

A striking scene of a Tyrannosaurus rex attacking an adult Edmontosaurus. Image credit: Jen Hall.

This damaged Edmontosaurus skull was unearthed in 2005 within the Hell Creek Formation of eastern Montana.

Now housed in the Museum of the Rockies’ paleontology collection, this fossil offers a remarkable detail: the interior of the skull is filled with Tyrannosaurus teeth.

According to Taia Winberg-Henzler, a doctoral student from the University of Alberta, “While bite marks on fossils are somewhat common, discovering embedded teeth is exceptionally rare.”

“Analyzing these teeth, especially those lodged in a skull, allows us to identify the bitten and the biter,” she explains.

“This phenomenon enables us to envision the harrowing encounter involving this Edmontosaurus. It’s akin to being a detective at a prehistoric crime scene.”

Comparative analysis of the embedded teeth with all carnivorous species from the Hell Creek Formation revealed a match with the Tyrannosaurus. A CT scan of the skull provided deeper insights into this event.

“Fossils like this one are particularly fascinating because they capture the behavior of a Tyrannosaurus rex attacking this herbivore,” states John Scannella, the curator of paleontology at the Museum of the Rockies.

“With no signs of healing around the embedded Tyrannosaurus teeth, it suggests that the Edmontosaurus may have been deceased at the time of the attack or succumbed to its injuries.”

Based on the way the teeth are embedded in the nose of the Edmontosaurus, “This indicates what often transpires when predators kill their prey,” Winberg-Henzler notes.

“The force required to embed these teeth into the bone also signifies the use of lethal strength.”

“To me, this paints a chilling picture of the final moments for this Edmontosaurus,” she adds.

“The typical feeding habits of the Tyrannosaurus—considered one of the largest carnivores to ever roam the Earth—have sparked extensive research and debate over the years,” Dr. Scannella remarks.

“Insights gained from the teeth embedded within the Edmontosaurus skull allow for a deeper understanding of Tyrannosaurus behavior.”

For detailed findings, refer to the published study in the online journal PeerJ.

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TCA Winberg-Henzler and JB Scannella. 2026. Behavioral Effects of Tyrannosaurus Teeth and Associated Tooth Marks Embedded in an Articulated Skull of Edmontosaurus from the Hell Creek Formation in Montana. PeerJ 14: e20796; doi: 10.7717/peerj.20796

Source: www.sci.news

New Crocodile Fossil Discovery in Ethiopia: Coexistence with Australopithecus afarensis Revealed

Posted on March 13, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists examining fossils in Ethiopia have discovered a new species of crocodile, named Crocodylus lucivenator, that coexisted with the renowned hominid Australopithecus afarensis. This formidable predator likely thrived in the wetlands and forest watering holes during the Pliocene epoch, posing a significant threat to early hominins.

Crocodylus lucivenator cohabited with Lucy and her early ancestors, potentially preying on them. Image credit: Tyler Stone, University of Iowa.

Crocodylus lucivenator thrived between 3.4 and 3 million years ago, overlapping in time and place with the famous hominin Australopithecus afarensis.

This species measured approximately 3.7 to 4.6 meters (12 to 15 feet) in length and weighed between 270 and 590 kilograms (600 to 1,300 pounds).

As an ambush predator, it would remain camouflaged underwater, ready to strike at unsuspecting drinkers.

“It was the dominant predator in that ecosystem, surpassing lions and hyenas, representing the biggest threat to our ancestors,” stated Professor Christopher Brochu from the University of Iowa.

“It is highly likely that Crocodylus lucivenator preyed on Lucy’s kind.”

“The combination of anatomical features in Crocodylus lucivenator was quite extraordinary and surprising,” he added.

The species was identified from 121 specimens, primarily skulls, teeth, and jaw fragments, obtained from the Hadar Formation in Ethiopia’s Afar region.

One notable fossilized jaw exhibits signs of damage indicating potential combat with another crocodile.

“This specimen displayed several partially healed injuries, suggesting it likely engaged in a fight with another crocodile,” explained Dr. Stephanie Drumheller, a paleontologist at the University of Tennessee.

“Such face-biting behavior is a common trait in crocodilian species, with similar scars appearing in the fossil record of extinct groups.”

While it’s unclear which combatant emerged victorious, the healing suggests survival post-battle, regardless of the outcome.

Crocodylus lucivenator exhibits a unique blend of anatomical traits found across several extinct African crocodile species.

This crocodile shares features with two known Pleistocene species while also retaining more primitive characteristics.

Additionally, researchers found a distinctive ridge along the snout resembling traits in modern Neotropical crocodiles and late Miocene species from Libya and Kenya.

Similar fossilized features at the Pliocene Kanapoi site in Kenya had been previously misclassified under a different species.

New investigations reveal that these fossils closely relate to Crocodylus lucivenator and several other extinct East African crocodiles.

Phylogenetic analysis indicates that this ancient crocodilian population represents a distinct lineage.

Fossil evidence confirms that Crocodylus lucivenator was the sole crocodile inhabiting the Pliocene Hadar Formation.

In contrast, contemporary deposits in the Turkana Basin suggest four different crocodile species coexisted at that time, although the reason for this disparity remains unknown.

“During the Pliocene, Hadar featured diverse habitats, such as woodlands, wet grasslands, and river systems,” remarked Dr. Christopher Campisano, a paleontologist at Arizona State University.

“Remarkably, this crocodile was one of the few species successful in adapting.”

This discovery is detailed in the article: Journal of Systematic Paleontology.

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Christopher A. Brochu et al. Lucy’s Danger: A Pliocene crocodile from the Hadar Formation of northeastern Ethiopia. Journal of Systematic Paleontology published online on March 11, 2026. doi: 10.1080/14772019.2026.2614954

Source: www.sci.news

New Fossil Evidence Suggests Grecopithecus Exhibited Partial Bipedalism

Posted on March 6, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

A groundbreaking discovery of a 7.2-million-year-old femur at the Azmaka fossil site in southern Bulgaria reveals a unique blend of locomotor features, suggesting both quadrupedal and bipedal abilities. This significant finding involves a research team led by Professor Madeleine Böhme from the Senckenberg Center for Human Evolution and Paleoenvironment at the University of Tübingen. The fossil has been tentatively linked to Grecopithecus, a fossilized species of ape known from fragmented archaeological sites in the Balkans, which is considered by some as a contender for the earliest known human species.

Grecopithecus freibergii lived in the dusty savanna of the Athens Basin 7.2 million years ago.” width=”580″ height=”754″ srcset=”https://cdn.sci.news/images/2017/05/image_4888_1-Graecopithecus-freybergi.jpg 580w, https://cdn.sci.news/images/2017/05/image_4888_1-Graecopithecus-freybergi-230×300.jpg 230w” sizes=”(max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px” />

Grecopithecus freibergii inhabited the dusty savanna of the Athens Basin 7.2 million years ago. This image from Pyrgos Vasilisis, the site of discovery, shows a southeastern view over Athens’ plains, beneath reddish clouds of Saharan dust. Background features include Mount Himethos and Mount Lycabettos. Image credit: Velizar Simeonovski.

Researchers regard Grecopithecus as a controversial late Miocene ape fossil, estimated to be around 7.2 million years old.

Some experts speculate that this ancient species could represent the earliest humans, potentially predating fossils traditionally linked to early human ancestry in Africa.

The fossil record of Grecopithecus includes a partial lower jaw discovered near Athens, Greece, in 1944, alongside isolated upper premolar fossils from Bulgaria examined in the 2010s.

“This ancestor from 7.2 million years ago is classified within the genus Grecopithecus and may represent the oldest known hominid,” stated David Bigan, a professor at the University of Toronto and co-author of the study.

The analysis in the study involved nearly complete femurs from Grecopithecus unearthed from the Azmaka site.

The newly discovered fossil, located in floodplain sediments dating back approximately 7.2 million years, showcases distinctive features. The Azmaka femur’s bulbous head is noticeably separated from the neck, with an elongated, diagonally ascending medial edge characteristic of hominids.

While this find does not fully represent the range of adaptations seen in later bipedal species, the angle of the neck axis falls within the lower spectrum observed in modern humans and approaches estimates for early human ancestors such as Orrorin, but remains below the typical angle found in suspensory apes like orangutans.

Researchers suggest that this combination of anatomical features indicates a transitional form of bipedalism that is neither specialized for climbing nor fully adapted for terrestrial life.

Weight estimates based on the dimensions of the femur suggest Grecopithecus weighed approximately 23-24 kg, akin to a small chimpanzee.

Professor Nikolai Spasov of the Bulgarian National Museum of Natural History remarked, “Numerous external and internal morphological traits, such as the elongated neck between the femoral shaft and head, the specific attachment points for the gluteal muscles, and the robust nature of the external bone layer, share similarities with our bipedal hominin ancestors and modern humans.”

“These anatomical features differ significantly from those of tree-dwelling apes,” he added. “Nevertheless, Grecopithecus did not walk in the same manner as modern humans.”

The environmental context of the Azmaka site indicates a scrub and forest savannah near a braided river system, suggesting that early terrestrial bipeds may have evolved outside of jungle habitats.

The authors hypothesize that the descendants of this group might have migrated from Eurasia to Africa during the late Miocene in response to climatic and environmental changes in the eastern Mediterranean, potentially influencing the ancestry of later African apes and hominids.

Whether the Azmaka femur ultimately reconstructs the geographic story of human origins remains contingent upon future discoveries.

Yet currently, it provides a rare insight into the origins of upright walking within a landscape characterized by seasonal rivers and open forests, millions of years prior to the emergence of the first widely recognized human ancestors in Africa.

Grecopithecus exemplifies a pivotal moment in human evolution, representing the transition from arboreal to terrestrial ancestors, akin to those from approximately 12 million years ago, including Danuvius guggenmosi, discovered at the Hammerschmiede site in southern Germany and more recently in East Africa,” emphasized Professor Bigan.

“In essence, you could classify this as a missing link. Grecopithecus is likely a descendant of apes from the Balkans and Anatolia that existed 8 to 9 million years ago, including Ouranopithecus and Anadrovicius, evolving from Western and Central European ancestors.

“Significant climate fluctuations in the eastern Mediterranean and Western Asia resulted in the periodic formation of extensive semi-desert landscapes between 8 and 6 million years ago,” he concluded. “This prompted a dispersal of Eurasian mammals into Africa, laying the groundwork for the contemporary savannah mammal fauna.”

The team’s findings were published in the November 2025 issue of Paleobiodiversity and Paleoenvironment.

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N. Spasov et al. Early forms of bipedal locomotion in terrestrial humans during the Late Miocene of Bulgaria. Paleobio Paleoembu, published online on November 13, 2025. doi: 10.1007/s12549-025-00691-0

Source: www.sci.news

Ancient 280-Million-Year-Old Fossil: The Earliest Evidence of Land Predators Hunting Herbivores

Posted on March 4, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists from the University of Toronto Mississauga have uncovered numerous tooth impressions in the fossilized bones of three juvenile Diadectes, one of the earliest large herbivorous vertebrates to traverse land. This groundbreaking finding represents the earliest direct evidence of predator-prey interactions between terrestrial carnivores and herbivores.

Skeletal reconstruction of Diadectes sideropelicus. Side view illustrating left and right tooth and hole marks. Image credit: Young et al., doi: 10.1038/s41598-026-38183-6.

Paleontologists have long been aware of the existence of apex predators in the Permian landscape; however, clear physical evidence confirming their dependence on the early large herbivores has remained elusive.

In contrast to the Mesozoic Era, renowned for its dinosaur bite marks, the earlier fossil record reveals scant direct evidence of such predator-prey encounters.

“Our findings indicate that the predator-prey hierarchy emerged earlier than previously understood,” stated lead author Professor Robert Rice, a paleontologist at the University of Toronto Mississauga.

“While these interactions are well-documented in the ‘age of reptiles,’ there has been limited information regarding them in the Paleozoic era, when terrestrial vertebrates first evolved into large apex predators and herbivores.”

In this study, Professor Rice and colleagues analyzed the disarticulated skeletons of three juvenile Diadectes, dating back to the early Permian period.

The fossils were unearthed in the Mud Hill area of the Vale Formation located in Texas, USA.

The paleontologists documented five distinct types of bone damage: shallow notches, deeper holes, grooves along the shafts, conical punctures, and small holes.

Notably, many marks were concentrated around cartilage-rich joints, indicating predators had stripped away muscle and pried open connective tissues.

Some grooves ran parallel to the long axis of the bone, consistent with the motion of tearing flesh.

“The holes, pits, cuts, and wrinkles present on these three juvenile herbivores’ skeletons point to the presence of large predators in this area, such as Varanopus and Dimetrodon,” said lead study author Jordan M. Young, a researcher at the University of Toronto Mississauga.

“Scavengers and small arthropods also took part in this ‘Paleozoic feast.’”

Evidence of arthropod perforation was found where the cartilage of the bone ends would have been.

The study was published in the Journal on February 26, 2026, in a Scientific Report.

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JM Young et al. 2026. The earliest direct evidence of trophic interactions between terrestrial apex predators and large herbivores. Scientific Reports 16, 6977; doi: 10.1038/s41598-026-38183-6

Source: www.sci.news

Ancient Primate Relative Discovered: Southernmost Fossil Unearthed in Colorado

Posted on March 4, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Newly Discovered Tiny Fossil: Purgatorius
This shrew-sized mammal is recognized as the oldest known ancestor of all primates, including humans. Initially believed to be confined to northern North America, its range now extends hundreds of kilometers to the south. This week’s article in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, detailed in a recent paper, challenges conventional theories about the biogeography of early primates and suggests that their diversification occurred rapidly following the end-Cretaceous mass extinction.

Shortly after the Cretaceous mass extinction, the earliest known primates like Purgatorius McKivevelli adapted quickly, specializing in an omnivorous diet that included tree fruits and archaic ungulate mammals. Image credit: Andrei Atutin.

The origins and early biogeographical history of primates is a fascinating yet contentious subject. The oldest primates, Purgatorius, are small tree-dwelling mammals that first emerged in North America around 65.9 million years ago.

Previously, Purgatorius fossils were only found in northern regions such as Montana and Saskatchewan, creating an incomplete understanding of their evolutionary history.

Paleontologist Stephen Chester from the City University of New York and his colleagues describe the southernmost fossil of Purgatorius in their new paper.

The specimens were meticulously recovered from ancient sediments in the Coral Bluffs area of the Denver Basin in Colorado.

“This discovery fills a critical gap in our understanding of the geographic distribution and evolution of our earliest primate ancestors after the dinosaur extinction,” Dr. Chester stated.

The fossils analyzed by the team consist of small teeth that display a distinctive combination of features, indicating they may belong to an earlier, previously unidentified species of Purgatorius.

“The presence of these fossils in Colorado reveals that ancient primates likely originated in the north before expanding southward, rapidly diversifying post-end-Cretaceous mass extinction,” Chester explained.

While scientists previously believed Purgatorius was absent from southern regions during this period, new findings suggest that this assumption was primarily due to limited fossil sampling.

“Our results demonstrate that small fossils can easily be overlooked,” Dr. Chester remarked.

“More intensive searches, especially utilizing screen-cleaning techniques, will likely uncover numerous significant specimens.”

The study further questions long-held assumptions about the habitats of early primates.

“The ankle bone of Purgatorius suggested tree-dwelling characteristics, and we initially suspected its absence from southern Montana was due to extensive forest destruction following an asteroid impact 66 million years ago,” Chester noted.

“Yet, our paleobotanical colleagues indicate that plant recovery in North America was rapid, leading us to believe that Purgatorius likely existed further south—we just haven’t looked hard enough.”

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Stephen GB Chester et al. “Southernmost Origin of Purgatorius: Insights into the Biogeographic History and Diversification of the Oldest Primates.” Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, published online March 2, 2026. doi: 10.1080/02724634.2026.2614024

Source: www.sci.news

Unearthed in Canada: Rare Fossil of Baby Dome-Headed Dinosaur Discovered

Posted on March 3, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

For years, the fossil record of pachycephalosaurs (dome-headed dinosaurs) has primarily consisted of fossilized skulls. In contrast, the postcranial remains of young pachycephalosaurs have remained largely unexplored. Recent paleontological findings have unveiled the youngest known example of a pachycephalosaur body, shedding light on how these fascinating dinosaurs grew and moved during their early months of life.

Reconstruction of the life of the pachycephalosaur individual CMNFV 22039 in a typical environment of the Upper Maastrichtian French Formation. Image credit: Caitlin Lindblad.

Paleontologist Brian Moore from Carleton University and his team noted that pachycephalosaurs predominantly comprised small, bipedal dinosaurs (ranging from 2 to 6 meters long) found in Asia and North America during the Santonian to Maastrichtian periods (85 to 66 million years ago).

This clade is particularly recognized for its unique frontal and parietal bones, which merge to create a bulbous dome on their skulls.

The cranial elements surrounding this dome are occasionally integrated into the structure, often featuring nodes, spikes, and other decorative traits.

Notably, the frontoparietal dome is the most resilient part of the pachycephalosaur skeleton (besides the teeth), resulting in a fossil record that heavily favors partial skull remains.

Consequently, much of the understanding regarding the ontogeny and phylogeny of pachycephalosaurs relies significantly on skull morphology.

The recently described pachycephalosaur specimen, cataloged as CMNFV 22039, dates back to roughly 67 million years ago during the Maastrichtian period of the Late Cretaceous.

This fossil was discovered in the French Formation, the youngest of the five Maastrichtian formations located in southern Saskatchewan, Canada.

Remarkably, this dinosaur was likely under a year old at the time of its death, marking it as the youngest known pachycephalosaur from fossil records.

“Despite its small size (estimated at just 90 centimeters or 3 feet), the skeleton displays several features characteristic of pachycephalosaurs,” the paleontologists confirmed.

These findings indicate that many traits used to identify adult pachycephalosaurs were present from a very young age.

Additionally, they provide insight into how juvenile pachycephalosaurs moved. In comparison to adults, the hindlimbs of juveniles were proportionately longer, suggesting that they had a more agile physique during their early development.

As the dinosaur matured, its body seemingly transitioned to the more robust proportions observed in adults, indicating a shift in physical capabilities as it increased in size and weight.

“The relatively long hind limbs of juveniles compared to those of adults imply a likely negative ontogenetic allometry in the hind limbs,” the researchers concluded.

The team’s findings are detailed in a paper published in the February 26th issue of the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology.

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Brian R.S. Moore et al. Posterior skull of ontogenetically youngest known pachycephalosaur (Dinosauria: Ornithischia). Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, published online on February 26, 2026. doi: 10.1080/02724634.2026.2616325

Source: www.sci.news

Fossil Amber Unveils Ancient Ant Ecological Interactions with Other Organisms

Posted on February 28, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Fossils preserved in amber are not only exquisite but also provide insights into ancient ecological interactions, including potential parasitism and symbiotic relationships between ants and mites. This revelation comes from a groundbreaking morphological study analyzing six amber specimens: Baltic, Dominican, and Burmese.

Fossils of an ant colony preserved in Baltic Sea amber from Lithuania. Image credit: José de la Fuente & Agustín Estrada-Peña, doi: 10.3389/fevo.2026.1724595.

“Inclusions in amber reveal potential interactions between various organisms that shaped prehistoric environments,” stated paleontologist Dr. Jose de la Fuente from the Game and Wildlife Research Institute.

“The identification and morphological analysis of fossil ants and other insects in amber offer a glimpse into life on Earth millions of years ago.”

In this pioneering study, de la Fuente and colleagues examined four pieces of Cretaceous amber (dating back 99 million years), one Eocene amber (approximately 56 to 34 million years ago), and one Oligocene amber (roughly 34 to 23 million years ago).

The specimens comprised ancient ants and other organisms, as well as a rare phenomenon known as syninclusion.

“The earliest ants, identified from the late Cretaceous period, were known as stem ants, which left no modern descendants. All existing ants evolved from crown ants,” the researchers emphasized.

“Both ant types are present in the six amber specimens we investigated, including the hell ant, which evolved from stem ants.”

The researchers utilized advanced microscopy to identify various species and document the distances between ants and other organisms in the specimens.

In three of the six amber pieces, ants were discovered in close proximity to mites.

The first specimen revealed crested ants, a wasp, and two ticks closely associated, suggesting they may have been traveling on the ants.

The second piece showcased stem ants alongside spiders, while the third contained hell ants, snails, millipedes, and numerous unidentified insects.

The fourth specimen featured a stem ant and a mite approximately 4 mm apart.

The fifth amber fragment included three distinct types of ants related to mites and termites, as well as poorly preserved mosquitoes and winged insects.

In the sixth sample, stem ants were found alongside wasps and spiders believed to be parasitic. It appeared the ants were consuming something, resting against another insect inclusion that might be a worm or larva, yet no interaction was evident, hinting it could be a coincidence.

“The closest co-inclusions of ants likely reflect behaviors and interactions between these organisms,” Dr. de la Fuente noted.

“The ant-mite interaction observed in the fourth specimen may indicate two potential scenarios.”

“First, a special symbiotic relationship where the tick hitches a ride on the ant to disperse to new habitats; second, parasitism occurring when the mites feed on the ant host during transport.”

While amber fragments featuring ants are scarce, those with multiple species are even rarer. Existing evidence suggests interactions between ants and mites may sometimes be mutually beneficial.

Future studies could clarify these interactions using micro-CT scans to explore attachment structures that may facilitate the mites’ travel on ants.

“Advanced imaging techniques are essential for enhancing the analysis of interactions among diverse organisms in fossil amber inclusions,” concluded Dr. de la Fuente.

For more details, read the research team’s paper published today in Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution.

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Jose de la Fuente and Agustín Estrada-Peña. 2026. Description of fossil amber containing ant co-inclusions. Front. Ecol. Evol 14; doi: 10.3389/fevo.2026.1724595.

Source: www.sci.news

New Fossil Discovery Could Resolve Controversy Surrounding Spinosaurus Sailback Features

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Artist’s Interpretation of *Spinosaurus mirabilis*

Credit: Dani Navarro

Artist's interpretation of Spinosaurus mirabilis — Artist’s Interpretation of *Spinosaurus mirabilis*

Credit: Dani Navarro

The fascinating debate surrounding the dinosaur Spinosaurus continues: was it an exceptional swimmer capable of diving to catch prey or a “hell’s heron” that snatched giant fish from shallow waters? Recent fossils of a new species, Spinosaurus mirabilis, discovered approximately 1,000 kilometers inland, may provide clarity, asserting that it resembled a sandpiper, as suggested by Paul Sereno from the University of Chicago.

The discussion of Spinosaurus lifestyles among paleontologists is ongoing, characterized by distinctive features such as large sails, massive claws, wide feet, and crocodilian jaws. Previous depictions in the 2025 BBC series Walking with Dinosaurs presented them as aquatic hunters.

In 2019, local guides led Sereno’s team to a remote Niger desert, where they unearthed a fragment of jaw bone identified later as belonging to a type of spinosaur. The COVID-19 pandemic delayed their return to the site.

During their second expedition, researchers discovered about ten Spinosaurus bones. Remarkably, they observed large crests atop the skulls and unique sails along their spines shortly after their initial find.

Sereno stated, “This was a shining moment because we recognized it as a new species of Spinosaurus that would significantly enhance our understanding of these dinosaurs.”

Named Spinosaurus mirabilis, this species is estimated to have roamed the Earth around 95 million years ago, growing to lengths of about 10 to 14 meters, comparable to the renowned Spinosaurus aegyptius. Sereno warned, “You wouldn’t want to be close to this animal; it could take you down in about three seconds.”

Similar to Spinosaurus aegyptius, this new species possessed a noticeable crest, though its crest was significantly larger—potentially reaching at least 40 centimeters in height for larger individuals. Researchers believe that, comparable to modern crowned birds such as the guinea fowl, these crowns were likely covered with a keratin sheath, standing at least 50 centimeters high.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C9DW4EgJ0zg" title="Spinosaurus Discovery

The delicate crest probably served not as a weapon but as a visual display. “It likely boasted bright colors,” Sereno remarked. “It signals, ‘I’m here, I’m healthy.’

The significant sails of the Spinosaurus might also have been utilized for visual signaling. Sereno suggests it raised questions about their purpose in mating and territorial protection. “Such environments, like beaches and riverbanks, enhance visibility, allowing animals to spot rivals and mates over long distances,” he explained.

Crested Skull of *S. mirabilis*

Credit: Keith Ladzinski

Modern sandpipers, like the great blue heron, exhibit similar display characteristics, reinforcing the migration theory posited by Sereno. When comparing various animals based on the proportions of their jaws, necks, and hindlimbs, spinosaurids were found adjacent to heron-like species.

Although Spinosaurus struggled to swim efficiently due to its large sails, it could dive to depths of about 10 feet (3 meters) as an adult, according to Sereno.

Evidently, most spinosaur fossils have been discovered near oceans, while S. mirabilis thrived far inland. Sereno notes, “No marine predator weighing over a ton has entered freshwater habitats.” The absence of major freshwater predators, like river killer whales, supports the idea that these creatures were adaptations, similar to modern herons.

Sereno mentions, “This study validates the consensus developed regarding these animals. They aren’t super swimmers or deep divers; rather, they resemble herons and storks, foraging through shallow waters for their primary diet of fish.”

David Horn from Queen Mary University of London remarked, “The unique crest suggests a new species, and variations in jaws and teeth further solidify this point.”

Mark Witton at the University of Portsmouth, UK, emphasized that the lengths of the legs indicate Spinosaurus was capable of efficient movement, countering claims of a predominantly aquatic lifestyle.

Dinosaur Hunting in Mongolia’s Gobi Desert

Join an exciting expedition to uncover dinosaur fossils in the expansive Gobi Desert, a renowned hotspot for paleontological discoveries.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Fossil Discovery Sheds Light on the Origins of Earth’s First Fish

Posted on February 4, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists from Australia and China have conducted two groundbreaking studies on the fossilized remains of a remarkable Devonian lungfish. Utilizing advanced imaging technology, they have unearthed previously overlooked anatomical details, significantly enhancing our understanding of early vertebrate evolution. Their findings have been published in the Canadian Journal of Zoology and the journal Current Biology.

Paleolophus yunnanensis, a unique lungfish species that thrived in southern China’s waters 410 million years ago. Image credit: Brian Choo, Flinders University.

In a recent study, lead researcher Alice Clement, a paleontologist at Flinders University, investigates The Mystery of Kainokara, a fossil known from a single specimen found in the Late Devonian Gogo Formation of Western Australia.

“New research, including the analysis of previously neglected specimens, is gradually uncovering the rich diversity of lungfishes found in Australia’s significant fossil sites,” said Dr. Clement.

“One particularly enigmatic specimen originates from Australia’s earliest ‘Great Barrier Reef’, a Devonian reef located in the Kimberley region of northern Western Australia.”

“When first described in 2010, this unusual specimen was so perplexing that the authors speculated it might represent an entirely new type of fish never documented in science.”

“Using advanced scanning techniques, we developed comprehensive digital images of both the external and internal structures of the skull, revealing the complexity of this fascinating lungfish’s brain cavity.”

“In fact, we confirmed that earlier interpretations may have been from an upside-down perspective.”

“We were also able to compare the well-preserved inner ear region with other lungfishes,” noted Flinders University paleontologist Hannah Thiele.

“This provides an essential data point in the rich collection of lungfish and early vertebrate species.”

“This research enhances our understanding of the evolutionary progression of these ancient lobe-finned fishes, both in Gondwana and globally.”

In a separate study, Flinders University paleontologist Brian Chu and colleagues reveal a newly discovered species of lungfish from the Devonian period in China, Paleolophus yunanensis.

“The discovery of Paleolophus yunanensis offers unprecedented insight into the transitional phase between the early appearance of lungfish and their extensive diversification millions of years later,” said Dr. Chu.

“At this time, this group was just beginning to develop unique feeding adaptations that would serve them well throughout the remainder of the Devonian period and into the present.”

“Lungfish, including the ancient lineage found in Queensland, Australia, have fascinated researchers due to their close evolutionary relationship with tetrapods, the four-limbed vertebrates that include humans.”

“The distinctive skull of the newly discovered lungfish from 410-million-year-old rock formations in Yunnan offers crucial insights into the rapid evolutionary changes during the Early, Middle, and Late Devonian periods.”

“The new specimens exhibited both similarities and differences compared to the earliest known specimens, such as Diabolepis fossils from southern China and uranolophus found in locations like Wyoming and Australia.

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Hannah S. Thiele et al., deciphering The Mystery of Kainokara from the Late Devonian Gogo Formation, Australia. Canadian Journal of Zoology, published online January 28, 2026. doi: 10.1139/cjz-2025-0109

Tuo Qiao et al., 2026. New fish fossil sheds light on the rapid evolution of early lungfish. Current Biology 36 (1): 243-251; doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2025.11.032

Source: www.sci.news

Massive Fossil Discovery Unearths 512-Million-Year-Old Ecosystem Treasures

Posted on January 28, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Artist’s Impression of the Huayuan Biota Ecosystem

Dinghua Yang

A remarkable fossil find has emerged in southern China, unveiling an ecosystem that dates back 512 million years, immediately postdating Earth’s first mass extinction event.

The fossils belong to the Cambrian period, initiated 541 million years ago, a time characterized by a significant increase in animal diversity which led to the emergence of most major animal groups.

This evolutionary flourishing faced a dramatic setback with the Shinsk event around 513.5 million years ago, when oceanic oxygen levels plummeted, resulting in the extinction of various animal groups.

Han Zeng and his team at China’s Nanjing Institute of Geology and Paleontology began unearthing these fossils in 2021 at a quarry in Huayuan County, Hunan Province.

So far, researchers have documented 8,681 fossils from 153 distinct species, approximately 60 percent of which are previously unknown to science. This ancient ecosystem has been dubbed the “Flower Garden Biota,” potentially surpassing Canada’s renowned Burgess Shale in significance.

This ecosystem comprises 16 major animal groups believed to have thrived in deep-sea environments, largely unaffected by the Shinsk event.

“Our understanding of the Shinsk extinction event was limited to skeletal fossils of certain animals, such as archaeal sponge reefs, trilobites, and small shelled fossils,” Zeng explains.

The Flower Garden Biota also includes various mollusks. Zeng noted, “The extinction predominantly affected shallow-sea habitats, while the deep-sea environments, where the Huazono biota thrived, remained largely stable.”

Arthropods of the Hanazono Biota Family

Han Zeng

The majority of fossils unearthed belong to arthropods akin to modern-day insects, spiders, and crustaceans. Other fossil types include mollusks, brachiopods, and cnidarians, relatives of jellyfish.

One notable specimen is Guangshancharis Kunmingensis, an 80 cm long arthropod recognized as the largest animal discovered at the site, likely a predatory species within the Huayuan ecosystem.

Another arthropod, Hermetia, was previously known only from Canada’s Burgess Shale but is now found in the Flower Garden Biota, indicating that these early animals were capable of long-distance dispersal via ocean currents, according to Zeng.

Zeng emphasized that the exceptional preservation of the fossils is due to rapid burial under fine sediment, capturing intricate details of soft anatomy including limbs, antennae, tentacles, gills, and even nervous tissues.

*Aronia*: A Cambrian Sea Creature Similar to Sponges

Han Zeng

Joe Moishuk from Canada’s Manitoba Museum reflects that the site ranks among top Cambrian fossil locations, celebrated for its biodiversity and preservation quality.

While some groups like sponges and trilobites are known to have declined significantly during the mid-Cambrian Shinsk event, many animal groups’ fates remain unclear.

“Findings like the Hanazono biota offer invaluable insights into the biodiversity of this period, helping to illuminate gaps in our understanding of Earth’s history,” notes Moisiuk.

Tetsuto Miyashita of the Canadian Museum of Nature mentions that two key Cambrian fossil sites are the 520-million-year-old Chengjiang Biota in China and the 508-million-year-old Burgess Shale in Canada.

“Comparing these sites is akin to contrasting Bach’s ensemble with The Beatles; understanding the variances is crucial before grasping the overarching narrative of these ecosystems,” Miyashita states. “New biota discoveries assist paleontologists in unraveling the influence of geographical features, mass extinctions, and oceanic conditions.”

A conspicuous absence in the Flower Garden Biota is any evidence of fish. “Where are the fish?” queries Miyashita. “Are they scarce, which is globally uncommon, or are other ecological factors at play?”

Zeng mentions that not all fossils have been thoroughly scrutinized yet, suggesting the possibility of undiscovered species, including fish, as further exploration continues.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Fossil Shorebirds Unveil New Insights Into Australia’s Climate Change History

Posted on January 22, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Shorebirds serve as important indicators of coastal and wetland ecosystems, and their widespread distribution highlights their ecological significance. Although wading shorebirds are infrequently found in the fossil record, a remarkable collection of shorebird fossils has emerged from Pleistocene deposits at the Naracoorte Caves World Heritage Site in South Australia. Recent studies on these fossils provide insights into the evolution of wetland environments, revealing that flourishing habitats vanished with climate shifts as far back as 60,000 years ago. The research links a drying phase around 17,000 years ago to the decline of many of the nine or more shorebird species discovered in one of the Naracoorte Caves.

Red knot (Calidris canutus), near Grinet, Brittany, France. Image credit: Stephan Sprinz / CC BY 4.0.

“Shorebirds are rare in the fossil record, making the discovery of numerous shorebird fossils in Blanche Cave surprising,” stated PhD candidate Karl Lenser from Flinders University.

“This finding suggests that wetlands and tidal flats—vital feeding grounds for plovers, sandpipers, and other shorebirds—were more prevalent during the last Ice Age.”

Currently, climate change and habitat loss are contributing to the decline of Australia’s shorebird populations.

Gaining insights into how these species adapted to historical climate changes may be essential for forecasting their future.

Lenser and his team were particularly intrigued by the remains of the Plains Wanderer, an endangered bird found mostly in Victoria and New South Wales, which was among the most common fossils identified in this study.

Out of approximately 300 examined bones, more than half were identified as those of Plains Wanderers.

“Today’s Plains Wanderers are selective about their habitats; however, other fossils from Naracoorte indicate that the area once featured wooded environments—starkly different from the treeless grassland they inhabit today,” Lenser explained.

Naracoorte represents the only fossil site in Australia with such a substantial population of Plains Wanderers, indicating a significant decline in their numbers over the last 14,000 years due to habitat restriction.

Dr. Trevor Worthy from Flinders University highlighted the uniqueness of this sandpiper fossil sample, noting its representation of migratory species that travel from the Northern Hemisphere to spend winters in Australia.

“This includes three species from the Calidris genus and the Latham Sandpiper (Galinago hardwickii),” he added.

“Fossil assemblages also include blue-bellied plovers that migrate from Australia to New Zealand for breeding.”

“Fossil evidence shows that two young birds flew approximately 2,000 km from New Zealand and were captured by owls near Blanche Cave in Naracoorte,” Dr. Worthy explained.

“There remains much to uncover about Australia’s bird species from the last Ice Age, and fossils from sites like Naracoorte are crucial for filling in these knowledge gaps,” Lenser noted.

“Naracoorte Caves holds a 500,000-year record of biodiversity in Southeast South Australia,” stated Dr. Liz Reid from the University of Adelaide.

“As this study clearly demonstrates, caves offer a glimpse into pre-European landscapes, providing valuable information for the conservation of endangered species today.”

Visitors to Naracoorte Caves can explore the excavation site and delve into the science behind South Australia’s only World Heritage Site.

Findings have been published in the online journal Old Trogia Electronica about the study.

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Karl M. Lenser et al. 2026. Fossil shorebirds (order: Charadriidae) revealing a Pleistocene wetland trend at Naracoorte Caves, South Australia. Old Trogia Electronica 29 (1): a2; doi: 10.26879/1608

Source: www.sci.news

2.6 Million-Year-Old Ethiopian Fossil Reveals Widespread Existence of Paranthropus Hominid

Posted on January 21, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

The recently unearthed fossil represents the first known partial specimen of a 2.6-million-year-old lower jaw from Ethiopia’s Afar region, specifically belonging to the genus Paranthropus. This fossil is among the oldest remains found in the region and is likely the earliest of its kind across Africa. This groundbreaking discovery significantly reshapes paleoanthropologists’ perspectives on early hominid evolution, suggesting that these ancient relatives had a more extensive and adaptable lineage than previously recognized.

Paranthropus boisei. Image credit: © Roman Yevseyev.

The newly labeled fossil, MLP-3000, was discovered in the Mille Logia research area and comprises an edentulous mandibular body, complete with preserved roots and a partial molar crown.

Geological and magnetostratigraphic analyses indicate that these fossils date back approximately 2.9 to 2.5 million years during a period marked by dramatic environmental shifts in eastern Africa.

“To understand our evolutionary trajectory as a genus and species, we must also comprehend the ecological and competitive factors that influenced our evolution,” said Zeresenai Alemseged, a professor at the University of Chicago.

“This discovery offers more than just a snapshot; it sheds new light on the underlying forces driving the evolution of Paranthropus.

Until now, Paranthropus fossils had primarily been documented from southern Ethiopia to South Africa, with no prior findings in the Afar region. This lack of evidence was confounding given the region’s abundance of fossils spanning around 6 million years, including significant discoveries of Australopithecus and early homo.

Recent findings reveal that Paranthropus, from its earliest known existence, had a broader geographic range than previously understood.

“We seek to comprehend who we are and how we evolved, influencing our behavior and the environment around us,” Professor Alemseged stated.

“The fossil record showcases more than 15 hominin species, typically classified into four categories: facultative bipeds, habitual bipeds, obligate bipeds, and obligate hominids.”

“Numerous fossils belonging to more than a dozen species, including Ardipithecus, Australopithecus, and homo, have been discovered in the Afar region of northern Ethiopia. The lack of Paranthropus fossils in this area was striking and perplexing for paleoanthropologists, many of whom theorized that this genus never expanded that far north.”

“Some experts have posited that dietary specialization may have restricted Paranthropus, suggesting that competition with more adaptable homo species limited its range,” he added.

“However, this assumption is incorrect; Paranthropus was as adaptable and versatile as homo, and this discovery illustrates that its absence in the Afar area was merely a result of the fossil record.”

According to anatomical analysis, the jaw exhibits a unique blend of features, showcasing characteristics of Paranthropus alongside those found in more primitive hominids, including a notably robust mandibular body and exceptionally large posterior canines.

This mosaic of traits leads researchers to tentatively classify the fossil as Paranthropus sp., without assigning it to a specific species.

The context of this discovery is equally vital as the fossil itself.

The Mille Rogia area preserves sediments from a time of significant environmental change, roughly between 3 million and 2.4 million years ago, during which the climate shifted toward more open grasslands, becoming the dominant habitat.

Fossils of associated animal species highlight these habitat transformations; Paranthropus was not confined to a narrow ecological niche but could thrive in various environments.

The presence of Paranthropus in the Afar region additionally suggests that multiple hominin lineages coexisted in this area during the late Pliocene.

Fossils of early homo and Australopithecus, dating to a similar period, have already been located at nearby archaeological sites, indicating a surprising level of diversity in early homo evolution.

By extending the known range of Paranthropus over 1,000 km north of its previously recognized boundaries, this discovery challenges long-held assumptions regarding the ecology and migration patterns of early hominids.

“This new finding enhances our understanding of adaptation and behavior, including the competitive dynamics between species, diet, physical adaptations, and potential use of stone tools,” Professor Alemseged remarked.

“Discoveries like this spark intriguing questions that prompt us to examine, revise, and formulate new hypotheses about the significant differences among major hominin groups.”

This important finding has been detailed in the following article: paper, published in today’s edition of Nature.

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Zeresenai Alemseged et al.. First long-distance Paranthropus fossils expand the distribution of this adaptable genus. Nature published online on January 21, 2026. doi: 10.1038/s41586-025-09826-x

Source: www.sci.news

7 Million-Year-Old Sahelanthropus Fossil: The Oldest Evidence of Bipedalism

Posted on January 6, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

For over 20 years, Sahelanthropus tchadensis, one of the earliest hominid species (dating back 6.7 to 7.2 million years), was discovered in Chad in 2001. This species is central to a heated debate: Did our earliest ancestors walk upright? A groundbreaking study by paleoanthropologists at New York University provides compelling evidence supporting this notion. The research indicates that Sahelanthropus tchadensis, an ape-like ancestor from Africa, showcases some of the earliest adaptations for bipedal terrestrial locomotion.

Reconstruction of Sahelanthropus tchadensis. Image credit: University of Silesia.

According to New York University, “Sahelanthropus tchadensis was essentially a bipedal ape with a brain size similar to that of a chimpanzee, likely spending considerable time foraging and finding safety in trees,” as noted by Dr. Scott Williams.

“Despite its ape-like appearance, Sahelanthropus tchadensis demonstrated adaptations for bipedal posture and movement on land,” Dr. Williams added.

The team focused on the femur and two partial forearm bones found at the Toros Menara site in Chad. Previous research had asserted that these bones were too ape-like to indicate upright walking; however, this latest study utilizes 3D shape modeling and anatomical analysis tailored to human locomotion.

“These characteristics suggest a similarity in hip and knee function between Sahelanthropus tchadensis and modern humans, possibly representing fundamental adaptations toward bipedalism in the human lineage,” the researchers concluded.

Although the external shape of the limb bones resembles that of chimpanzees, the proportions indicate a more human-like configuration.

The researchers found that the relationships between arm and leg lengths are comparable to modern bonobos and early human predecessors.

Notably, they discovered the femoral tubercle—a bony structure on the femur crucial for attaching the iliofemoral ligament, which stabilizes the human hip joint—unique to hominids.

Additionally, the femur exhibited significant internal torsion known as front twist (medial torsion of the femoral shaft), a feature linked to aligning the knee with the body’s center of gravity during walking, distinctly present in hominids compared to extant apes and extinct Miocene species.

These findings challenge long-held beliefs regarding the timeline and mechanics of upright walking evolution.

Scientists propose that bipedalism emerged gradually rather than as a sudden change. “We consider the evolution of bipedalism as an ongoing process,” researchers stated.

“Sahelanthropus tchadensis could represent an early form of habitual bipedalism.”

“In addition to terrestrial bipedalism, Sahelanthropus tchadensis likely engaged in various arboreal activities, including vertical climbing, forelimb suspension from branches, and both arboreal quadrupedal and bipedal locomotion.”

The study interprets this fossil as evidence of early human evolution from an ape-like ancestor, asserting that chimpanzee-like species are positioned near the root of the human family tree.

“Our analysis reveals that Sahelanthropus tchadensis demonstrates an early adaptation for bipedalism, suggesting that this trait evolved early in our lineage from ancestors closely related to present-day chimpanzees and bonobos,” Dr. Williams stated.

For further details, refer to the study published in this month’s issue of Scientific Advances.

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Scott A. Williams et al., 2026. The Earliest Evidence of Bipedalism in Humans: Sahelanthropus tchadensis. Scientific Advances 12(1); doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adv0130

Source: www.sci.news

Fossil Analysis Sheds Light on Early Human Walking Evolution: Expanding the Debate

Posted on January 3, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

*Sahelanthropus*: Fossil comparison with chimpanzees and humans

Williams et al., Sci. Adv. 12, eadv0130

Comparison of Sahelanthropus fossils with chimpanzees and humans — *Sahelanthropus*: Fossil comparison with chimpanzees and humans

Williams et al., Sci. Adv. 12, eadv0130

The long-standing debate regarding whether our earliest ancestors walked on knuckles like chimpanzees or stood upright like modern humans may be closer to resolution, yet skepticism remains.

Scott Williams and researchers at New York University recently reanalyzed fossil remains of Sahelanthropus tchadensis, indicating that this species possessed at least three anatomical features suggesting it was our earliest known bipedal ancestor.

The journey to this conclusion has been extensive.

Fossilized remains of a skull, teeth, and jawbone from approximately 7 million years ago were first identified in 2002 in Chad, north-central Africa. The distinctive features of this ancient species, including its prominent brow ridge and smaller canine teeth, were quickly acknowledged as diverging from ape characteristics.

Analyzing the skull’s anatomy suggests it was positioned directly over the vertebrae, analogous to other upright, bipedal hominins.

In 2004, French scientists uncovered the femur and ulna associated with the Sahelanthropus skull from Chad. However, it wasn’t until 2020 that researchers claimed the femur exhibited curvature similar to that of non-bipedal great apes.

Since then, scholarly debate has fluctuated. For instance, in 2022, researchers Frank Guy and Guillaume Daver of the University of Poitiers argued for anatomical features of the femur that indicate bipedalism. In 2024, Clement Zanoli and colleagues from the University of Bordeaux countered, suggesting Guy and Daver’s assertions were flawed, as the anatomical characteristics of bipedalism may also appear in non-bipedal great apes.

Lead study author Williams started with a “fairly ambivalent” stance on Sahelanthropus.

His team investigated the femur’s attachment point for the gluteus maximus muscle, finding similarities to human femur anatomy.

They also compared the femur and ulna size and shape; while similar in size to chimpanzee bones, they aligned more closely with human proportions.

Additionally, they identified the “femoral tuberosity,” a previously overlooked feature of Sahelanthropus.

“We initially identified it by touch, later confirming it with 3D scans of the fossil,” Williams shared. “This bump, present only in species with a femoral tubercle, contrasts smooth areas found in great apes and plays a critical role in mobility.”

This area serves as an attachment point for the iliofemoral ligament, the strongest ligament in the human body. While relaxed when seated, it tightens during standing or walking, securing the femoral head in the hip joint and preventing the torso from tilting backward or sideways.

However, Williams expressed doubts about whether this study would fully end the conversation about how Sahelanthropus moved.

“We are confident Sahelanthropus was an early bipedal hominin, but we must recognize that the debate is ongoing,” Williams noted.

In response to a recent paper, Guy and Daver issued a joint statement asserting that humans likely began walking on two legs by 2022: “This reaffirms our earlier interpretations about Sahelanthropus adaptations and locomotion, suggesting habitual bipedalism despite its ape-like morphology.”

They acknowledged that only new fossil discoveries could unequivocally conclude the matter.

John Hawkes, a professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, also endorsed the new findings, noting their implications for understanding the complex origins of the hominin lineage.

“It may be deceptive to perceive Sahelanthropus as part of a gradual evolution towards an upright posture. It reveals crucial insights into these transformative changes,” Hawkes commented.

However, Zanoli contended, stating, “Most of the evidence aligns Sahelanthropus with traits seen in African great apes, suggesting its behavior was likely a mix between chimpanzees and gorillas, distinct from the habitual bipedalism of Australopithecus and Homo.

Explore the Origins of Humanity in South-West England

Join a gentle walking tour through the Neolithic, Bronze Age, and Iron Age, immersing yourself in early human history.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Paleontologists Uncover Earliest Evidence of Ancient Honey Bees Nesting in Vertebrate Fossil

Posted on December 18, 2025 by

Bees exhibit an extraordinary range of species and behavior, from solitary types that nest in burrows to social variants that construct intricate nests. This nesting diversity is partially captured in the fossil record, with trace fossils dating from the Cretaceous to the Holocene. In a recent study, Field Museum paleontologist Lázaro Vignola López and his colleagues unveil novel nesting behaviors based on trace fossils unearthed from Late Quaternary cave deposits on the Caribbean island of Hispaniola. Osnidam Almontei was discovered within the cavity of a vertebrate corpse.

A reenactment of the life of bees with evidence of them building their nests in caves and using the bone cavities as housing chambers for several egg-laying cells. Image credit: Jorge Mario Macho.

“The initial descent into the cave isn’t very deep. You secure a rope to the side and rappel down,” Dr. Vignola López explained.

“Entering at night, you can spot the eyes of tarantulas residing there. As you navigate through the 10-meter-long underground tunnel, fossils start to emerge.”

Fossil layers were separated by carbonate deposits formed during rainy periods in antiquity.

Although rodents made up most of the fossils, remains of sloths, birds, and reptiles—over 50 species in total—were also found. Together, these fossils narrate a compelling story.

“We hypothesize this cave served as a home for owls over generations, potentially for hundreds or even thousands of years,” Dr. Vignola López remarked.

“The owl would venture out to hunt and return to the cave to regurgitate pellets.”

“We’ve collected fossils of the prey the owl consumed, its own remains, and even bones of turtles and crocodiles that may have inadvertently fallen into the cave.”

Dr. Vignola López and his colleagues observed that the sediments in empty tooth sockets of mammalian jaws didn’t accumulate randomly.

“The surface was notably smooth and slightly concave, which is unusual for sediment burial. I noticed this pattern across multiple specimens and thought to myself, ‘There’s something peculiar here.’ It reminded me of a hornet’s nest,” he noted.

Many well-known nests constructed by bees and wasps belong to social species that coexist in large colonies, raising their young together—like the bees in honeycombs or paper wasp nests.

“However, the majority of bee species are solitary. They deposit eggs in small cavities and leave pollen for their larvae’s nourishment,” Dr. Vignola López continued.

“Some bee species create nests in tree hollows, in the ground, or utilize vacant spaces. Certain species in Europe and Africa even nest within discarded snail shells.”

To investigate the possible insect nests within the cave fossils, the researchers conducted CT scans and X-rays of the bones, capturing 3D images of the compacted soil in the tooth sockets without damaging the fossils.

The shape and composition of the deposits bore similarities to mud nests created by some contemporary bee species. Some of these nests contained ancient pollen grains that mother bees had sealed for their larvae.

The researchers propose that bees combined saliva and soil to construct small nests for their eggs, smaller than the eraser on a pencil.

Nesting within larger animal bones provided protection for bee eggs from potential predators such as wasps.

While the bees themselves were not preserved, the unique characteristics of the nests allowed for a taxonomic classification.

They named the nests Osnidam Almontei, in honor of the scientist Juan Almonte Milan, who first discovered this cave.

“Since no bee remains were found, they may have belonged to a currently existing species. Our knowledge on the ecology of various bee species in these islands is limited,” Dr. Vignola López stated.

Scientists speculate that this behavior arises from a combination of factors. With little soil covering the limestone terrain in this region, bees may have opted for caves as their nesting sites, rather than digging into the ground like many other species.

Additionally, this cave had been home to generations of owls, with numerous owl pellets accumulating over the years, providing the bees with ample use of the bones the owls left behind.

“This finding illustrates the peculiarities of bees. They can be surprising, and it emphasizes the importance of meticulous examination when studying fossils,” Dr. Vignola López remarked.

of paper published today in Proceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences.

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Lazaro W. Vignola-Lopez and others. 2025. Fossil traces in mammal remains reveal a new nesting behavior for bees. R Soc Open Science 12(12):251748; doi: 10.1098/rsos.251748

Source: www.sci.news

New Study Suggests Remarkable South African Fossil Could Represent a New Australopithecus Species

Posted on December 16, 2025 by

A recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Cambridge and La Trobe University questions the classification of the Littlefoot fossil, Australopithecus prometheus.

Littlefoot fossil from Sterkfontein Cave, central South Africa. Image credit: Purdue University.

The Littlefoot fossils were found in 1994 within a cave in Sterkfontein, central South Africa.

This specimen, referred to as StW 573, drew its name from the four small leg bones discovered in a box containing animal fossils, leading to the uncovering of the skeleton.

In the 2010s, paleoanthropologist Ronald Clark proposed that Littlefoot belonged to a hominin species known as Australopithecus prometheus.

Others argued that it was Australopithecus africanus, a hominid species first identified by Australian anatomist Raymond Dart in 1925 and already well-known in the region and across South Africa.

However, a new investigation by Dr. Jesse Martin and his team at La Trobe University has determined that Littlefoot does not exhibit a distinct set of traits linked to either species, suggesting it may be a completely new species.

“This fossil represents one of the most significant discoveries in human history, and its identity is crucial for understanding our evolutionary background,” stated Martin.

“We believe it’s evident that it does not belong to Australopithecus prometheus or Australopithecus africanus. This is likely a previously unidentified ancestor of humans.”

“Dr. Clark deserves recognition for discovering Littlefoot and for being among the few to suggest the presence of two hominin species in Sterkfontein.”

“Littlefoot indicates that this is likely true; there are indeed two species.”

Another forensic facial reconstruction of Australopithecus species – afarensis. Image credit: Cicero Moraes / CC BY-SA 3.0.

The researchers now intend to determine which species Littlefoot represents and how it fits within the human evolutionary tree.

Professor Andy Herries, a researcher at La Trobe University and the University of Johannesburg, remarked: “Littlefoot is one of the most complete and significant fossils ever discovered, providing valuable insights into early human diversity and how our ancestors adapted to various environments in southern Africa.”

“It is distinctly different from the designated specimen of Australopithecus prometheus, a classification based on the notion that early humans mastered fire, which we now understand was not the case.”

“Its unique significance compared to other contemporary fossils clearly indicates the necessity of defining it as a distinct species.”

Regarding this research, a paper was published in the December 2025 issue of the American Journal of Biological Anthropology.

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Jesse M. Martin et al. 2025. StW 573 Littlefoot fossil is Australopithecus prometheus. American Journal of Biological Anthropology 188 (4): e70177; doi: 10.1002/ajpa.70177

Source: www.sci.news

New Fossil Discovery Indicates Mosasaurs Could Thrive in Freshwater Environments

Posted on December 16, 2025 by

Paleontologists have discovered a 66-million-year-old Mosasaurus tooth within the Hell Creek Formation in North Dakota, USA. This find reinforces the idea that mosasaurs, often viewed as marine reptiles, also hunted in freshwater rivers.

Artist’s reconstruction of the Hell Creek Mosasaurus. Image credit: Christopher DiPiazza.

“Mosasaurs were apex predators in marine environments, diversifying during the Late Cretaceous and dominating a range of ecological niches,” stated paleontologist Melanie Dooling from Uppsala University and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam alongside her team.

“The mosasauridae family is divided into three subfamilies: mosasauridae, plioplatecarpinidae, and tylosauridae, each showcasing unique adaptations that allow them to exploit various ecological opportunities.”

“Although mosasaurid fossils are often linked to shallow marine environments, findings of fossils in estuarine and freshwater settings challenge the notion that they were solely marine creatures.”

In 2022, a significant mosasaur tooth was unearthed from a multi-species fossil site in the Hell Creek Formation.

This area, once part of the ancient Western Interior Seaway, is well-known for a scarcity of marine species, primarily housing fossils of terrestrial and freshwater organisms.

The fossil was found in river sediments alongside an ancient tooth from a tyrannosaurus rex and a crocodile jawbone, indicating a rich ecosystem that included fossilized dinosaurs like edmontosaurus.

This specimen is related to the mosasaurid family prognatodontini, as its surface texture resembles that of other members in this group.

Researchers also studied isotopes within the tooth enamel to deduce the habitat of mosasaurs, discovering oxygen and strontium isotopic signatures indicative of freshwater conditions.

This may imply that mosasaurs preyed on freshwater animals, suggesting they could thrive and hunt away from oceanic environments.

“The carbon isotopes in teeth generally reflect the diet of the organism,” Dr. Dühring explained.

“Many mosasaurs exhibit low ¹³C values, allowing for deeper dives.”

“The teeth of Mosasaurus, in contrast, have higher ¹³C values compared to those of all known mosasaurs, dinosaurs, and crocodiles, indicating they likely did not dive deeply and may have occasionally consumed drowned dinosaurs.”

“Isotopic data suggest this mosasaur inhabited freshwater river environments.”

“When we examined two additional mosasaurus teeth from a nearby, slightly older site, we noted similar freshwater isotopic signatures.”

“These analyses indicate that mosasaurs inhabited fluvial environments for about the last million years before their extinction.”

Further examination of older mosasaurus teeth and other fauna from the Western Interior Seaway suggested isotopic concentrations more aligned with freshwater rather than saltwater habitats.

This points to a gradual decrease in salinity in the region over time.

The authors propose that members of Prognathodontini might have been opportunistic predators inhabiting niches similar to modern species, akin to the saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus), believed to have adapted to freshwater systems in response to the receding salinity of the Western Interior Seaway, gradually moving into the Hell Creek channel.

“We also analyzed fossils from other marine species and found distinct differences,” stated Dr. Per Ahlberg, a paleontologist at Uppsala University.

“Gill-breathing animals possessed isotopic signatures linked to brackish or saltwater, while all lung-breathing organisms did not.”

“This indicates that mosasaurs, which required surface access to breathe, lived in the upper freshwater layer rather than the saltier deeper layers.”

The team’s paper was published in the Journal on December 12, 2025, in BMC Zoology.

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in the midst of chaos others. 2025. King of the Riverside offers a fresh perspective on pre-extinct mosasaurs through a multi-proxy approach. BMC Zuhl 10, 25; doi: 10.1186/s40850-025-00246-y

Source: www.sci.news

Bolivian Fossil Site Captures Thousands of Cretaceous Dinosaur Footprints, Tail Marks, and Swim Trails

Posted on December 5, 2025 by

The Carreras Pampas archaeological site within Bolivia’s Toro Toro National Park has documented 1,321 tracks and 289 isolated footprints, totaling 16,600 theropod dinosaur footprints. Additionally, 280 swim tracks have been identified, amounting to 1,378 swim tracks in total. Some of the tracks include tail traces.

Dinosaur footprints at the Carreras Pampas Stadium in Bolivia’s Toro Toro National Park. Image credit: Esperante et al., doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0335973.

Bolivia boasts one of the most comprehensive and diverse records of dinosaur footprints globally, covering the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods.

Despite the abundance of track sites, there has been limited scientific research published.

A recent study led by paleontologist Raul Esperante from the Institute of Geosciences, along with his colleagues, has documented an extraordinary variety of dinosaur footprints at the Carreras Pampas site in Toro Toro National Park.

In nine different study areas, the research team uncovered 16,600 footprints left by three-toed theropod dinosaurs from the late Cretaceous.

These footprints vary in size from small (less than 10 cm) to large (over 30 cm) and capture a range of dinosaur behaviors, including running, swimming, tail dragging, and abrupt turns.

“The waist height of most (80%) of the trackmakers was between 65 cm and 1.15 meters, with a significant portion measuring between 75 cm and 1.05 meters,” stated the paleontologist.

“Interestingly, very few trackmakers exceeded 1.25 meters in height.”

The majority of these footprints are oriented approximately northwest to southeast, and the sediments retain ripple marks, indicating that these dinosaurs traversed ancient shorelines.

“The Carreras Pampas track set a new world record for the number of individual dinosaur footprints, continuous tracks, tail marks, and swimming marks,” the researchers noted.

“This exceptional frequency suggests it was a heavily trafficked area, and the parallel alignment of some footprints may imply groups of dinosaurs traveled together.”

“Numerous more footprints at this site and other locations in Bolivia remain to be studied,” they added.

“This site offers a remarkable glimpse into the region’s past. It reveals not only how many dinosaurs inhabited the area but also their behaviors during migration.”

“It’s truly incredible to work here, as the ground is covered with dinosaur footprints wherever you look.”

The team’s findings were published in the online journal PLoS ONE.

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R. Esperante et al. 2025. Morphology, preservation, and taphonomy of dinosaur footprints, tail prints, and swim tracks in the world’s largest athletic arena: Carreras Pampas, Toro Toro National Park, Bolivia (Upper Cretaceous). PLoS One 20 (12): e0335973; doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0335973

Source: www.sci.news

Fossil Fuel Emissions Increase Again, While China’s Emissions Stay Steady

Posted on November 13, 2025 by

Lignite Power Plant in Germany

Patrick Pleul/DPA/Alamy

Global emissions from fossil fuels are projected to rise by 1.1% in 2025, hitting a record high as hydrocarbon consumption accelerates, as per the annual Global Carbon Budget report.

On a more optimistic note, emissions from China, the leading emitter globally, seem to be stabilizing and may have peaked, offering hope that worldwide emissions may soon follow the same trend.

“We are not yet in a situation where emissions are decreasing at the pace required to combat climate change,” states Corinne Le Quéré, a researcher at the University of East Anglia. “However, it is encouraging to see emissions growth in China and India beginning to slow.”

The report estimates that humanity will emit 38.1 billion tonnes of fossil CO2 this year, comparable to the emissions from driving 9 billion gasoline cars annually. While renewable energy sources are replacing hydrocarbons in several regions, they remain insufficient to meet the rising energy demands, most of which continue to be fulfilled by fossil fuels. The consumption of coal, oil, and natural gas is still on the rise this year.

As noted in the report, the Earth is now 1.36 degrees Celsius warmer than before the industrial era. The current emissions trajectory makes it nearly impossible to keep global warming below the 1.5°C threshold set by the Paris Agreement, according to the report’s authors. Exceeding this limit substantially increases the risks of severe climate impacts, including irreversible changes like ice sheet collapses.

Last month, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged world leaders at the COP30 climate summit that surpassing 1.5°C of warming seems likely, urging humanity to reduce emissions and minimize this overshoot.

While global CO2 emissions are expected to decline slightly in 2025 when factoring in carbon absorption by oceans and land ecosystems, this is primarily attributed to the conclusion of the warm El Niño event, which hindered photosynthesis in major carbon sinks like tropical forests.

As the climate continues to warm, these sinks are becoming less effective at absorbing CO2, as highlighted in a separate study conducted by the team behind the Global Carbon Budget Report.

Nonetheless, the overall rise in emissions over the past decade has been slower compared to the previous decade, notes Pierre Friedlingstein from the University of Exeter, one of the report’s authors. “There are positive trends,” he asserts. “When looking at the growth rate, it’s significantly lower now.”

The report projects a 0.4% increase in emissions from China in 2025. An analysis by Carbon Brief illustrates that emissions have remained flat through the third quarter of this year. Solar power generation in the country has surged by 46% year-on-year, which has helped to mitigate the increased electricity demand. Meanwhile, rising electric vehicle sales have contributed to reduced pollution in the transport sector, although a spike in the production of oil-heavy chemicals and plastics has led to an uptick in static electricity emissions overall.

The think tank “Ember” mentions in another report that, thanks to the solar power boom, China’s fossil fuel electricity generation declined by 1.1% in the first three quarters of 2025, indicating “structural changes within the country’s electricity system.” India is also experiencing a significant increase in solar and wind energy installations, which fell by 3.3% during this period.

Enver stated that for the first time since the onset of COVID-19, global fossil electricity generation, excluding transportation, industry, and other sectors, will see no increase in 2025.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

New Fossil Discoveries Indicate Asian Forest Tortoise Ancestors Evolved in Europe

Posted on November 6, 2025 by

Paleontologists from the Institute of Paleontology of the Polish Academy of Sciences and the Autonomous University of Barcelona have identified a new species within the genus Turtle, known as Manuria. This discovery is based on fossilized remains found in the Czech Republic.

Life restoration of Manulia morula. Image credit: Rudolf Hima.

Manulia morula thrived in the wetlands of what is now the Czech Republic during the early Miocene epoch, roughly 20 to 17 million years ago.

This species is recognized as the oldest member of Manuria, which currently exists solely in Southeast Asia and comprises four extinct species along with two living ones: Manulia Emmis and the impressed turtle (Manulia Impreza).

“Tortoise paleontologist Dr. Milan Kraust from the Institute of Paleontology of the Polish Academy of Sciences remarked, ‘Turtles of the family Testudinidae are a clade highly specialized for terrestrial environments, predominantly inhabiting semi-arid conditions.’

“Members of the Testudinidae family, with carapace lengths ranging from 35 to 75 cm (14 to 30 inches), are categorized as medium to large-sized turtles, while those exceeding 75 cm are classified as giant-sized turtles.”

“Extant species of the Testudinidae can be divided into three main groups: gophers and Manuria (which appears as a basal genus or continuous branch), geokerona clade, and test duna clade, with the latter two forming the subfamily Testudininae.”

The fossil remains of Manulia morula include parts of the carapace and plastron, along with numerous unidentified shell fragments, which were uncovered at the Arnikov I fossil site in the Most Basin of Bohemia.

The length of the turtle’s shell is estimated to have been around 50 cm (20 inches).

“The Anikov I area has long been recognized as a region where wetlands featuring flooded rivers and shallow lakes have been documented,” the paleontologists stated.

“The wetland habitat near the coast was also inferred from the abundance of juvenile crocodiles and potentially the presence of Coristodere.”

“However, based on research findings regarding this genus, Manuria suggests a humid forest of evergreen broad-leaved trees situated near water, characterized by a rainy season and a distinct drier, cooler season, reminiscent of the current Kaeng Krachan National Park in Thailand.”

The discovery of Manulia morula broadens the paleobiogeographical distribution of this genus, Manuria, extending its range from Asia into the heart of Europe.

“According to our findings, the genus Manuria originated in Europe just prior to the Miocene climate optimum, subsequently spreading to Asia, where it continues to thrive today,” the researchers elaborated.

These findings were published on October 3, 2025, in the Swiss Journal of Paleontology.

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M. Kraust et al. 2025. Manulia morula sp. Nov.: An ancient large turtle from a Miocene swamp in Anikov, Czech Republic. Swiss Journal of Paleontology 144, 63; doi: 10.1186/s13358-025-00400-6

Source: www.sci.news

Mysterious Brazilian Fossil Reveals Widespread Presence of Lichens in the Early Devonian Period

Posted on October 31, 2025 by

Paleontologists have discovered a specimen dating back 410 million years: cavernous cavernosa nanum. This lichen is one of the oldest and most extensively distributed in the fossil record and was found in Brazil’s Paraná Basin, specifically within the Ponta Grossa Formation.

Artistically reconstructed cavernous cavernosa nanum from the Early Devonian, depicting high-latitude sedimentary systems of the Paraná Basin. Image credit: J. Lacerda.

The colonization of land and the evolution of complex terrestrial ecosystems rank among the most significant evolutionary milestones in the history of life.

This phenomenon greatly affected terrestrial and marine ecosystems, leading to the sequestration of atmospheric carbon dioxide, enhanced weathering, nutrient absorption in oceans, soil formation, and the emergence of major groups of terrestrial animals.

It is well-established that early plants played a crucial role in land colonization, particularly in establishing the first plant communities.

The earliest records of ancient land plants appear in the form of cryptospores from the Middle Ordovician, around 460 million years ago. The first macrofossils of vascular plants are found in Silurian deposits dating from approximately 443 to 420 million years ago.

Despite this, the specific role and presence of lichens during various stages of terrestrialization remain uncertain.

“cavernous cavernosa nanum displays a partnership of fungi and algae akin to modern lichens,” noted Dr. Bruno Becker Kerber from Harvard University.

“Our research illustrates that lichens are not merely peripheral organisms; they were vital pioneers in reshaping Earth’s terrain.”

“They contributed to the soil formation that enabled the colonization and diversification of plants and animals on land.”

Morphology and internal structure of cavernous cavernosa nanum. Image credit: Becker-Kerber et al., doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adw7879.

Findings indicate that ancient lichens originated in the cold polar regions of the Gondwana supercontinent, now known as parts of modern-day South America and Africa.

“cavernous cavernosa nanum is a remarkable fossil, preserved in an incredible state. Essentially, they are mummified with their organic matter intact,” remarked Professor Jochen Brocks from the Australian National University.

“In simple plants, the tough component is cellulose. In contrast, lichens are unique; they consist of chitin, the same material that gives insects like beetles their strength.”

“Chitin contains nitrogen. In our analyses, cavernous cavernosa nanum yielded an unprecedented nitrogen signal.”

“Such clear results are rare. It was a true Eureka moment.”

“Today, lichens continue to be vital in soil creation, nutrient recycling, and carbon capture in extreme environments spanning from deserts to the polar regions.”

“Yet, due to their delicate structure and infrequent fossil records, their origins remain elusive.”

“This research underscores the necessity of blending traditional techniques with innovative technology,” explained Dr. Nathalie L. Alchira, a researcher at the Synchrotron Light Institute in Brazil.

“Preliminary measurements enabled us to identify crucial areas of interest and collect 3D nanometer imaging for the first time, unveiling the intricate fungal and algal networks that define cavernous cavernosa nanum as a true lichen.”

The team’s study was published in this week’s edition of Scientific Advances.

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Bruno Becker-Kerber et al. 2025. The role of lichens in the colonization of terrestrial environments. Scientific Advances 11(44); doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adw7879

Source: www.sci.news

Nanotyrannus: Dinosaur Skeleton Resolves Long-Standing Debate Over ‘Small Tyrannosaurus’ Fossil

Posted on October 30, 2025 by

Artist’s interpretation of the pack Nanotyrannus assailing a young tyrannosaurus

Anthony Hutchings

Fossils previously thought to belong to a juvenile tyrannosaurus rex have been identified as a fully mature carnivore of a distinct species, resolving a long-standing debate in paleontology.

This controversy originated from a skull unearthed in the Hell Creek Formation in Montana during the 1940s, which was initially identified as gorgosaurus. It was later proposed to be a juvenile tyrannosaurus. In 1988, other researchers posited that the fossil represented an adult of a smaller related species, which they designated Nanotyrannus lansensis.

Since then, a number of additional fossils classified as Nanotyrannus have been discovered, although many paleontologists contend that they are merely tyrannosaurus juveniles.

Now, researchers have examined a complete skeleton for the first time, providing compelling evidence that Nanotyrannus is indeed a separate species.

The skeleton is among a pair of specimens known as “Dueling Dinosaurs,” found by private fossil hunters in 2006, which includes a triceratops and what was initially believed to be a juvenile T. rex buried approximately 67 million years ago.

It was only in 2020, when the fossil came into the possession of the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, that paleontologists could conduct a thorough analysis of it.

“Upon receiving the specimen, we recognized it was extraordinary,” remarks Lindsey Zanno from the North Carolina Museum of Natural Science. “We had no inkling it would radically alter decades of research concerning the world’s most renowned dinosaur.”

Mr. Zanno collaborated with his colleagues, including James Naples, a postdoctoral researcher at Stony Brook University in New York. She had initially supported the juvenile tyrannosaurus theory but was compelled to reevaluate her stance based on the findings.

“Nanotyrannus displays unique nerve and sinus patterns, a greater number of teeth, larger hands, and shorter tails. These traits remain consistent as the species develops from juvenile to adult,” she notes.

Lindsay Zanno with the proposed *Nanotyrannuslansensis* skeleton

North Carolina State University

Zanno and Napoli’s examination of the dinosaur’s limb bones confirmed that it was a fully mature specimen, approximately 20 years old, weighing around 700 kilograms and measuring about 5.5 meters in length. “This is roughly one-tenth the weight of an adult human and half the length of a tyrannosaurus,” Zanno explains.

Additionally, Zanno and Napoli reanalyzed 200 tyrannosaur fossils and concluded that another nearly complete skeleton, known as Jane from the Hell Creek Formation, is misclassified as a tyrannosaurid fossil. They propose that Jane is actually a new species within this genus, designated Nanotyrannus letaeus.

“Although we possess only one skeleton of N. Retheus, its anatomy suggests it was part of a larger species,” remarks Zanno. “The configuration of the palatal sinuses and the shape of the bone behind the eye are distinctive.”

Proposed *Nanotyrannus lansensis* skull features more teeth than the *tyrannosaurus* skull.

Matt Zeher/North Carolina Museum of Natural Science

Scott Parsons, a researcher at the South Carolina State Museum, asserts that this latest study clarifies the debate surrounding Nanotyrannus being its own genus and species.

“In my opinion, Nanotyrannus was among the most formidable dinosaur predators, and being pursued by one would be quite a terrifying experience,” Parsons remarks, noting its long legs and fearsome thumb claws.

“In essence, we can compare Nanotyrannus and tyrannosaurus to modern-day cheetahs and lions. While they shared a similar overall anatomy, they had distinct hunting strategies.”

Thomas Carr from Carthage College in Wisconsin has expressed that the new findings are “quite definitive” that the dueling dinosaur specimen represents an almost adult species, one that differs from tyrannosaurus.

Additionally, Holly Ballard from Oklahoma State University, who led the 2020 research, stated that there is “no contention” regarding the team’s conclusion that the fossil belonged to an individual nearing adult size.

However, neither Ballard nor Carr are fully convinced that the other fossil, Jane, constitutes a new species of Nanotyrannus. “Jane is still maturing and large,” emphasizes Ballard, suggesting it may be a new taxon rather than a juvenile tyrannosaurus. “We’re returning to the old debates,” Ballard laments.

“Moreover, in the Hell Creek Formation, if there are numerous small tyrannosaurs in circulation, where are the juvenile tyrannosaurus? ” Kerr questions, stating that it complicates the fossil record. “We simply haven’t uncovered enough tyrannosaurs to fully elucidate what was occurring during the growth phases of the tyrannosaurids in the Hell Creek Formation.”

Dinosaur hunting in Mongolia’s Gobi desert

Embark on an exhilarating and unique expedition to discover dinosaur ruins in the vast wilderness of the Gobi Desert, one of the world’s most renowned paleontology hotspots.

Source: www.newscientist.com

Fossil of 80-Million-Year-Old Long-Nosed Crocodile Discovered in Egypt

Posted on October 28, 2025 by

Paleontologists have unearthed two partial skulls and three partial jaws from an early diverging crocodile dinosaur in the Quseir Formation of Egypt.

Artist’s impression of Wasdiskus Kassabi. Image credit: Nathan Dehaut / MUVP.

This newfound species of crocodile existed in what is now Egypt roughly 80 million years ago during the late Cretaceous period.

Dubbed Wasdiskus Kassabi, it belongs to the Dirosauridae family. This group of crocodilians is known for its diverse skull morphology and broad distribution from the Late Cretaceous to the Paleogene.

“In contrast to modern crocodiles, dirosaurs flourished in coastal and marine habitats, characterized by elongated snouts and thin, needle-like teeth optimal for capturing slippery prey like fish and turtles,” stated paleontologist Sara Saber from Assiut University and her colleagues.

“Their notable survival and dispersal following the extinction of the dinosaurs is vital for understanding how reptiles adapted and diversified during the collapse of global ecosystems.”

Wasdiskus Kassabi was estimated to be 3.5 to 4 meters in length, featuring a lengthy snout and sharp, tall teeth.

“What sets it apart from other dirosaurids is its four teeth at the front of the snout versus the primitive five, nostrils placed at the top of the snout for surface breathing, and a notable notch at the snout’s tip where the jaws converge,” Saber added.

“These characteristics suggest that the dirosaurids’ bite was a gradual adaptation, representing a significant milestone in their evolutionary journey.”

Two partial skulls and three partial jaws of Wasdiskus Kassabi were discovered in the Kharga and Baris oases within Egypt’s Western Desert.

“Apart from its unique features, Wasdiskus Kassabi significantly contributes to our understanding of the origins of the dyrosaurid family,” Dr. Saber remarked.

“This new species extends the timeline for the African origin of dirosaurids and suggests their diversification may have begun earlier than previously thought, potentially during the early Coniacian-Santonian period (approximately 87 to 83 million years ago) rather than the Maastrichtian period (around 72 to 66 million years ago) as had been traditionally assumed.”

“This discovery highlights Africa as the evolutionary cradle of dirosaurids, from which subsequent lineages spread worldwide and have consistently been positioned in our phylogenetic analyses.” Wasdiskus Kassabi “is the ancestor of the dirosaurid lineage,” noted Belal Salem, a researcher affiliated with Mansoura University, Ohio University, and Benha University.

“The significance of Wasdiskus Kassabi lies not only in its revelations about the evolutionary history of this remarkable crocodilian group but also in the reminder that Egypt’s Western Desert still holds treasures that guard the mysteries of Earth’s ancient past.”

The findings are detailed in a study published today in the Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society.

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Sarah Saber et al. 2025. Early dirosaurids (Wasdiskus Kassabi) discoveries from the Campanian of Egypt illuminate the origin and biogeography of dirosaurids. Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society 205 (2): zlaf134; doi: 10.1093/zoolinnean/zlaf134

Source: www.sci.news

New Research Indicates Australia’s First Inhabitants Were Fossil Collectors

Posted on October 23, 2025 by

In a recent study, Professor Mike Archer from the University of New South Wales and his team revisited the fossilized tibia (the lower leg bone) of the now-extinct giant stenurine kangaroo. These bones, discovered in Mammoth Cave in southwestern Australia around World War I, provided solid evidence that Indigenous Australians hunted large animals, a finding in which Professor Archer was involved. A 1980 study had concluded that distinctive notches in the fossilized bones indicated slaughter. However, Professor Archer is now ready to acknowledge that this initial conclusion was incorrect.

Giant animal unearthed from mammoth cave about 50,000 years ago: giant long-beaked echidna Malayanglossus hackettii, giant kangaroo Procoptodon brauneorum, giant diprotodont Zygomaturus trilobus, and possum (Thylacinus cynocephalus). Image credit: Peter Schouten.

“As a scientist, updating the record as new evidence emerges is both my duty and responsibility,” Professor Archer stated.

“In 1980, we interpreted those cuts as signs of slaughter based on the best conclusions we could reach with the tools available to us then.”

“With advancements in technology, we now understand that our original interpretation was incorrect.”

“After the 1960s, there was a significant debate about whether Aboriginal peoples coexisted with Australia’s prehistoric megafauna or contributed to their extinction.”

“Many believed the incisions in the bones were made by humans using tools, suggesting that the extinction of megafauna and the arrival of humans approximately 65,000 years ago were not coincidental.”

“For decades, the bones from Mammoth Cave were seen as the ‘smoking gun’ indicating that Indigenous Australians hunted giant animals, but with that evidence dispelled, the discussion on megafauna extinction is now reopened, and the role of humans is more ambiguous than ever.”

To reexamine the same dissected stenurine leg bone, Professor Archer and his co-authors utilized advanced 3D scanning technology to analyze the bone without causing any damage.

They also employed modern radiometric dating methods to accurately determine the age of the bones and their cut surfaces while conducting detailed microscopic examinations.

Their findings indicated that the cuts were made after the bone had dried and cracked, suggesting the bones were likely already fossilized when the incisions occurred.

Paleontologists also investigated a fossilized tooth given to archaeologist Kim Ackerman by a Wora man from the Mowanjum mission, who had collaborated with Indigenous communities in the Kimberley during the 1960s.

This tooth, belonging to the Zygomaturus trilobus, a species of giant marsupial related to wombats, was part of Australia’s Pleistocene megafauna.

The tooth was retrieved from the Kimberley in northwestern Australia, and its characteristics closely matched other fossils found in Mammoth Cave in southwestern Australia.

Dr. Kenny Trabouillon from the Western Australian Museum remarked, “The discovery of this tooth in the Kimberley, far from its likely origin in Mammoth Cave, implies it may have been transported or traded by humans across great distances.”

“This suggests that cultural appreciation and symbolic usage of fossils existed long before the advent of European science.”

“The First Peoples might have been the continent’s, and possibly the world’s, earliest paleontologists.”

Researchers haven’t entirely dismissed the possibility of Aboriginal people having hunted Australia’s megafauna.

However, without concrete evidence, we cannot definitively assert that Indigenous Australians caused its extinction.

“While these remain hypotheses, we need substantiated proof before concluding that predation by Indigenous peoples contributed to the extinction of now-vanished megafauna, especially considering the long history of Indigenous peoples respecting and sustainably utilizing Australia’s wildlife,” Professor Archer stated.

“If humans were truly responsible for the unsustainable hunting of Australia’s megafauna, we would expect to find much more evidence of such hunting in the fossil record. Instead, the only solid evidence we had until now was this single bone, which now shows strong indications that the mutilations occurred post-mortem.”

If humans were not solely accountable for the extinction of Australia’s ancient megafauna, then what was?

Researchers indicate that many megafauna species went extinct long before humans arrived, and while some coexisted with humans for millennia, their decline often aligned with significant climate changes.

“What we can ascertain is that the First Peoples were the first in Australia to exhibit a keen interest in and collect fossils, likely thousands of years before Europeans arrived on the continent,” the researchers affirmed.

Their paper was published in the journal Royal Society Open Science.

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Michael Archer et al. 2025. Australia’s first people: hunters of extinct megafauna or Australia’s first fossil collectors. R. Soc. Open Science 12(10):250078; doi: 10.1098/rsos.250078

Source: www.sci.news

New Fossil Indicates Paranthropus Boisei May Have Crafted Tools

Posted on October 21, 2025 by

Paleoanthropologists have discovered and analyzed a partial hominin skeleton consisting of limb bones that are unmistakably linked to human skull components. Paranthropus boisei, an early hominin species that existed in East Africa between 2.3 and 1.2 million years ago, exhibits characteristics of manipulation and bipedal adaptations similar to those found in the genus homo. Furthermore, the hand morphology of this species shows convergence with gorillas in a way that supports manual food processing, potentially enabling strong gripping abilities akin to those required for climbing trees.

The earliest members of the genus homo were known to have manufactured and utilized stone tools.

However, stone tools dating back 3.3 million years and Oldowan artifacts from 3 million years ago were found at Lomekwi. These discoveries at two locations in Nyayanga, Kenya, have reignited discussions surrounding the potential use of tools by other species.

“When Mary Leakey uncovered the OH 5 skull, Paranthropus boisei was discovered alongside Oldowan stone tools, leading this stone tool to be labeled the ‘oldest stone tool maker yet found,'” stated Dr. Carrie Mongul from Stony Brook University and her team.

“The debate over whether Paranthropus made and used tools has continued since, largely due to the absence of definitive hand bones that can be assigned to this genus.”

In a recent study, the researchers investigated partial human skeletons uncovered between 2019 and 2021 at Koobi Fora, east of Lake Turkana in Kenya.

The specimen, designated KNM-ER 101000, is estimated to be slightly over 1.52 million years old.

The teeth and skull of this specimen align with previous records of Paranthropus boisei fossils.

“KNM-ER 101000 provides the first hand and foot bones definitively linked to human teeth and skull of Paranthropus boisei,” reported the researchers.

Characteristics of KNM-ER 101000’s hands resemble both modern humans and African apes.

For instance, the ratio of thumb to finger length indicates that Paranthropus boisei likely had grip strength and dexterity comparable to that of humans, although they probably did not possess a precise pinch grip.

In contrast, some hand bones bear similarity to those of gorillas, suggesting that Paranthropus boisei may have had a strong grip beneficial for climbing.

“The findings imply that Paranthropus boisei could create and utilize tools to some extent, while also supporting the proposed distinction in dietary adaptations between Paranthropus and homo,” noted the scientists.

“Besides shedding light on less recognized aspects of postcranial functional anatomy in Paranthropus, this discovery highlights broader trends in the evolution of human hands and tool usage.”

The results of this research were published in a new paper in the journal Nature on October 15th. Read the article here.

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CS Mongul et al. A new fossil reveals aspects of the human hand in Paranthropus boisei. Nature published online October 15, 2025. doi: 10.1038/s41586-025-09594-8

Source: www.sci.news

Huayracursor jaguensis Fossil Challenges Prevailing Theories on the Evolution of Sauropod Neck Lengths

Posted on October 15, 2025 by

Triassic dinosaur illustration *Huayracursor jaguensis*

Jorge Blanco.

SEI 270327767 — Triassic dinosaur illustration *Huayracursor jaguensis*

Jorge Blanco.

Deep in Argentina’s Andes Mountains, paleontologists have uncovered the remains of a small dinosaur, giving insight into the early adaptations that characterized sauropod dinosaurs, specifically the extended neck seen in diplodocus.

The fossil, named Huayracursor jaguensis, represents a partial skeleton of a creature that roamed the Earth during the Triassic period, roughly 230 million years ago. It is estimated to have measured around 2 meters in length and weighed about 18 kilograms.

Subsequent sauropods like brontosaurus and Patagotitan would grow to impressive sizes—over 35 meters long and weighing more than 70 tons, marking them as the largest and longest-necked animals in history.

Previously, scientists believed that the ancestors of these long-necked, herbivorous dinosaurs were small, short-necked, and possibly even omnivorous.

At the same time, other smaller sauropods, such as homo jaguensis, measured approximately 1 meter and displayed no signs of elongated neck bones, unlike the newly identified species. This led paleontologists to think that substantial growth in size and neck elongation in sauropods didn’t occur until millions of years later.

The discovery of homo jaguensis at Santo Domingo Creek in northwestern Argentina has prompted a reevaluation of how these dinosaurs developed their iconic long necks, according to Martin Hechenleitner from Argentina’s National Council for Scientific and Technical Research.

“Waila cursor presents a different narrative than the gradual transition model,” Hechenleitner points out. “This is evident since it coexisted with closely related species that were smaller and had relatively shorter necks.”

This dinosaur had a small skull, muscular hind limbs, slender hips, and notably short arms, with relatively large and robust hands compared to other dinosaurs of its era.

This suggests that the traits of increased size and neck elongation emerged early in this evolutionary line, Hechenleitner explains.

“Waila cursor allows us to trace the origins of elongated necks and larger body sizes back to the dawn of dinosaurs in the fossil record,” he says, referencing species like argentinosaurus and Patagotitan, which emerged from a lineage that originated over 100 million years ago, with early bipedal forms measuring just over a meter long and weighing between 10 and 15 kilograms.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Fossil of Long-Snouted Ichthyosaur Unearthed in the UK

Posted on October 14, 2025 by

Dean Lomax, a palaeontologist at the University of Manchester, along with his team, has unveiled a new genus and species of leptonectid ichthyosaur based on fossil remains found in Dorset, England.

Reconstruction of Siphodracon goldencapensis. Image credit: Bob Nichols.

The near-complete skeleton of this dolphin-sized ichthyosaur was unearthed near Golden Cap in 2001 by fossil collector Chris Moore from Dorset.

This specimen features a skull with large eye sockets and a long, sword-like snout, marking it as a new genus and species.

Dating back to the Pliensbachian period of the Early Jurassic, the fossil is estimated to be between 193 and 184 million years old.

“I vividly recall first seeing the skeleton in 2016. While we recognized its rarity then, we didn’t anticipate its significant contribution to our understanding of the intricate faunal turnover during the Pliensbachian period,” stated Dr. Lomax.

“This era is critical for ichthyosaurs, as certain families disappeared while new ones emerged, making this new species potentially the ‘missing piece of the ichthyosaur puzzle.’

“It is more closely related to species from the Late Jurassic, and its discovery helps indicate that faunal turnover transpires much earlier than we previously thought.”

“This marks the first early Jurassic ichthyosaur genus to be described in this region in over a century.”

Skeleton and skull of Siphodracon goldencapensis. Image credit: Dean Lomax.

Named Siphodracon goldencapensis, this new ichthyosaur measures approximately 3 meters (10 feet) in length and likely preyed on fish and squid. Evidence of its last meal can also be observed in the remains.

According to Dr. Erin Maxwell, an ichthyosaur specialist at the State Museum of Natural History in Stuttgart: “This skeleton not only offers essential insights into the evolution of ichthyosaurs but also enhances our understanding of life in Britain’s Jurassic seas.”

“The limb bones and teeth appear malformed, suggesting the animal suffered significant injury or disease during its life, and indications show the skull may have been bitten by a large predator, possibly another larger ichthyosaur, leading to this individual’s death.”

“Life in the Mesozoic ocean was perilous.”

The researchers identified several traits in Siphodracon goldencapensis that have not been seen in any known ichthyosaur.

One of the most peculiar features is the lacrimal bone, which has a unique protruding structure around the nostril.

“Thousands of complete or nearly complete ichthyosaur skeletons exist from both pre- and post-Pliensbachian layers,” noted Judy Massare, a ichthyosaur expert from the State University of New York at Brockport.

“Although the overall ecosystem shows similarities, the two faunas differ significantly with no overlapping species.”

“Evidently, a substantial shift in species diversity took place at some point during the Pliensbachian period.”

“Siphodracon goldencapensis aids in pinpointing when this change happened, yet we still lack insight into the reasons.”

This work is detailed in a study published in this month’s edition of Paleontology Papers.

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Dean R. Lomax et al. 2025. A new species of ichthyosaur with an elongated snout reveals complex faunal alterations during the poorly sampled Early Jurassic (Pliensbachian) period. Paleontology Papers 11 (5): e70038; doi: 10.1002/spp2.70038

Source: www.sci.news

Studies Suggest the 1-Million-Year-Old Yunxian Fossil Is an Early Hominid

Posted on September 26, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Different varieties of Homo, such as Homo Longhi, coexisted during the mid-Pleistocene era. The debate over whether these fossilized humans represent distinct species continues. The 1-million-year-old Yunxian 2 skulls from China are crucial for understanding the beginnings of Homo. In a recent study, paleontologists applied cutting-edge technology to recover and reconstruct the distorted Yunxian 2 fossils. Their findings indicate that this skull exhibits both primitive and advanced features in a mosaic pattern. Team analysis proposes that it belongs to an early Asian branch of Homo Longhi, which is closely related to Denisovan and is a significant part of the clade leading to Homo sapiens.

Reconstruction of Homo Longhi in its habitat. Image credit: Chuang Zhao.

Fossil evidence indicates the presence of multiple forms of Homo during the mid-Pleistocene period.

A significant portion of what we know about human evolution and archaic humanity is based on fossil skulls.

Nonetheless, many specimens from this time are damaged or deformed, creating uncertainty in species classification.

For instance, three human skulls from the Yunxian site in China, dating back nearly a million years, exhibit a mix of primitive traits.

The two already known Yunxian fossils, Yunxian 1 and 2, both show distortion. The newly discovered Yunxian 3 skull is still under analysis.

In this recent study, Dr. Xiaobo Feng, affiliated with Shanghai University and Huqiaotech University, along with his research team from the Yunxian Man Site’s Garden Team Laboratory, utilized advanced CT scanning and digital reconstruction methods to address the compression and distortion present in Yunxian 2.

The team’s analysis reveals a blend of previously unidentified primitive and derived characteristics, suggesting that this fossil belongs to the Asian Homo Longhi clade, closely related to Homo sapiens, which may include Denisovan traits.

Individuals within the Homo Longhi clade display distinctive traits, such as a larger cranial capacity, narrower eye spacing, a pronounced graveller depression, and a lower elongated frontal bone, all of which are evident in the Yunxian 2 fossils.

Researchers further posit that the Yunxian fossil is likely the oldest within the Homo Longhi clade, making it particularly significant.

“With geological ages ranging from 0.94 to 1.1 million years, Yunxian is closely aligned with the theoretical origins of the Longhi and Sapiens clades,” the team stated.

“Phylogenetically, it is nested within the Homo Longhi clade. However, its mosaic characteristics retain some plesiomorphic traits seen in Homo Erectus and Homo Elgustar. While Kabwe and Petralona show shared apomorphic traits, Homo Longhi and Homo sapiens may exhibit transitional functions close to the clade’s origin.”

“The narrow temporal gap between Yunxian and the deeper Longi nodes suggests a swift, early diversification of the Longi clades, similar to those of Sapiens and Neanderthals.”

A study detailing these findings will appear in the journal Science this week.

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Xiaobo Feng et al. 2025. The phylogenetic position of the Yunxian head in relation to Homo Longhi and Denisovan. Science 389 (6767): 1320-1324; doi: 10.1126/science.ado9202

Source: www.sci.news

The UK’s Oldest Known Lepidosaurus Fossil Discovered

Posted on September 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists have discovered the complete skull and skeleton of the Triassic Lepidosaurus species – Agriodontosaurus Helsbypetrae – from the Hellsby Sandstone Formation in Devon, England.

Agriodontosaurus Helsbypetrae. Image credit: Bob Nichols.

Lepidosauria is the most species-rich group of terrestrial vertebrates.

This group comprises around 12,000 species of lizards and snakes, along with a single species of Rhynchocephalia, the Tuatara (Sphenodon Punctatus) from New Zealand.

Collectively known as Squamata, these lizards and snakes not only range in size but also possess highly mobile skulls that enable them to capture large prey effectively.

These vital features of their skulls are absent in tuatara, making the understanding of their common ancestor essential.

The scalypidosaurs thrived during the Triassic period, 252 to 201 million years ago, but incomplete fossils have led to some confusion. Many are general scale pidosauromorphs that lack squamous epithelium or Rhynchocephalians.

“It was always expected that the earliest scalypidosaurs would exhibit some lizard characteristics, such as partially hinged skulls, open lower bars, and numerous teeth on the palate.”

“All of these traits are found in modern lizards and snakes, enabling them to grasp large prey by extending their mouths and using palate teeth to seize smaller prey.”

“The lower bar acts akin to the cheekbone, situated between the cheek and the jaw hinge, and is absent in present-day lizards and snakes.”

“Snakes and many lizards possess all these traits while enhancing skull flexibility.”

“Only the tuatara features a completely low temporal bar, presenting an archaic appearance reminiscent of some early reptiles, coupled with some substantial palate teeth.”

The fossil remains of Agriodontosaurus Helsbypetrae were found in 2015 on a beach in Devon, UK.

The specimen is dated to 242 million years ago (middle Triassic epoch), just prior to the emergence of dinosaurs.

It is approximately 3 to 7 million years older than the oldest known Lepidosaurus, Wirtembergia, from the Erfurt Formation.

“The new fossils revealed characteristics we didn’t anticipate,” remarked Dan Mark, a paleontologist at the University of Bristol and the University of Edinburgh.

“There are no teeth on the palate nor indications of hinges. While there is an open bar on the side, it’s not just one of the three, but also features a grand, large tooth in comparison to its closest relatives.”

Agriodontosaurus Helsbypetrae measured about 10 cm in length and showcased a unique combination of traits.

“When you observe the fossil, the entire skeleton fits in the palm of your hand,” said Professor Michael Benton from the University of Bristol.

“However, thanks to student efforts in cleaning up and scanning the data, we are uncovering remarkable details.”

“This new species possesses relatively large triangular teeth, likely adapted for slicing through the tough exteriors of insect prey, similar to modern tuataras.”

“The discoveries challenge our understanding of the evolutionary pathways of lizards, snakes, and tuataras,” Mark concluded.

The study results were published today in the journal Nature.

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D. Marche et al. The origins of feeding adaptations in the oldest known Lepidosaurus. Nature Published online on September 10, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41586-025-09496-9

Source: www.sci.news

Paleontologists Discover Several New Fossil Coelacanths

Posted on September 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Recently discovered species of coelacanth, which thrived at the end of the Triassic period around 200 million years ago, have been identified from museum specimens excavated in the UK over a century and a half ago.

Reconstruction of the large Mausonian Coelacanth artist from the Lezians of England. Image credit: Daniel Phillips.

Coelacanths are unique fish that first appeared in the early Devonian epoch fossil record approximately 419 million years ago.

Since the Paleozoic and Mesozoic periods, over 175 fossil coelacanth species have been identified.

During the Mesozoic Era, these fish exhibited significant diversification, with some species developing unusual body shapes.

However, at the close of the Cretaceous period, around 66 million years ago, they inexplicably vanished from the fossil record.

It is believed that coelacanths went extinct due to a mass extinction event during the Cretaceous period. Nonetheless, in 1938, the first specimen of the living species Latimeria chalumnae was fortuitously captured in South Africa.

“Our team has encountered numerous fossils that were initially classified as small marine reptiles. Pachistrophius,” said Professor Mike Benton of the University of Bristol, who is a senior author of the study.

“Many Pachistrophius share peculiar similarities with coelacanth fossils, but we’ve traveled to collections nationwide and discovered that this misidentification has occurred repeatedly.”

“Notably, several of these specimens have been stored in museum facilities, including public collections, since the 1800s,” stated Jacob Quinn, a paleontologist at the University of Bristol.

“From four previous reports of coelacanths from the Triassic era in the UK, we identified more than 50 individuals.”

Paleontologists conducted X-ray scans of numerous specimens to verify their identification.

The specimens mainly belong to the extinct group Mawsoniidae of the coelacanth, while also being closely related to living fish.

“The materials we identified are isolated specimens, but we can see they originate from individuals of various ages, sizes, and species.”

Dr. David Whiteside, a paleontologist at the University of Bristol, remarked:

“Like modern coelacanths, these large fish are opportunistic predators, lurking along the seabed and likely preying on whatever they encountered, including small Pachistrophius marine reptiles, which have been misidentified as coelacanth fossils for decades.”

The study is set to be published in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology.

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Jacob Quinn et al. 2025. British Triassic coelacanth fish. Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology 45: E2520921; doi: 10.1080/02724634.2025.2520921

Source: www.sci.news

Unique Fossil of a Boy’s Chest Dragon Unearthed in Germany

Posted on August 2, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Rhynchocephalians – These are members of the sister group to squamates (which include lizards, snakes, and worm lizards) and encompass living Tuataras (Sphenodon punctatus), dating back to the late Jurassic period in the Solnhofen Archipelago. They have been recognized for nearly two centuries, with an increasing number of specimens and species, yet their evolutionary development remains poorly understood. A well-documented marine rhynchocephalian genus, Plerosaurus, existed during the late Jurassic period about 150 million years ago, but clear juvenile specimens have yet to be identified among more than 15 known specimens (with several unlisted).

Plerosaurus is a remarkable long-swimming Rhynchocephalian that lived around 150 million years ago in what is now Germany during the late Jurassic period. Image credit: Roberto Ochoa.

“Genuine Plerosaurus is the most common rhynchocephalian found in the Late Jurassic deposits of Canjuers and Cerin, France, as well as in the Solnhofen Archipelago, Germany,” stated Dr. Victor Beccari from the SNSB-Bayerische Staatsammlung für Paläontologie and the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, along with his colleagues.

“This genus is characterized by an elongated triangular skull, a reshaped anterior jaw, an absence of a low anterior flange in the front part of the teeth, and reduced forelimbs.”

“Currently, there are two species within this genus: Pleurosaurus goldfussi and Pleurosaurus ginsburgi.”

“The specific distinctions are based on the count of anterior sacral vertebrae (50 and 57, respectively), the ratio of skull to appendix, and more advanced pelvic development in Pleurosaurus goldfussi.”

“Extensive research has been undertaken; however, in the more than 15 published specimens of Plerosaurus, no clear juvenile specimens have been recorded as of yet.”

Plerosaurus cf. P. ginsburgi: (a) Standard light photographs. (b) Photo under UV light. (c) Interpretation diagram of the specimen. Image credit: Beccari et al., doi: 10.1002/ar.25545.

In a recent study, researchers described a juvenile specimen of Plerosaurus.

The fossils were sourced from the Mörnsheim Formation near Müllheim, close to Solnhofen, Bavaria, Germany.

“This fossil is especially intriguing as it distinctly exhibits characteristics typical of young animals,” commented the paleontologist.

“Its teeth are small, show no signs of wear, its bones remain underdeveloped, and the vertebrae are still forming.”

“This small size, along with other features, makes it the first clearly identified juvenile Plerosaurus. These specimens bridge crucial gaps in understanding the growth and development of these extinct reptiles.”

Findings of juvenile Plerosaurus have significant implications for classifying another genus, Acrosaurus.

“Historically, some paleontologists have posited that Acrosaurus might represent a juvenile form of Plerosaurus, but until now, there was no substantial evidence to support this theory,” the researchers noted.

“These new fossils exhibit numerous similarities to previously identified Acrosaurus, suggesting that it is not a separate genus, but rather a hatchling form of Plerosaurus.”

“For years, I have sought to comprehend how these animals grew and developed, but I had never encountered such a young, well-preserved specimen,” remarked Dr. Andrea Villa from the Paleontologia Miquel Crusafont Institute.

The team’s paper was published in the March 2025 issue of Anatomical Records.

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Victor Beccari et al. 2025. Young Pleurosauride (Rhynchocephalia) from the Titonians of the Mörnsheim Formation, Germany. Anatomical Records 308(3):844-867; doi:10.1002/ar.25545

Source: www.sci.news

New Fossil Reveals Cambrian Nectocalid as an Early Ancestor of the Arrow Bug

Posted on July 25, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Nectakarizids are enigmatic Paleozoic creatures with a debatable classification. These beings evolved for aquatic life, boasting fins, camera-like eyes on stalks, and paired tentacles. Earlier theories proposed they belonged to a unique crustacean-like phylum, notochord, cephalopods, or even radioyoloons. However, new fossil discoveries from North Greenland indicate that Nectocalids are actually the early relatives of Arrow worms, also known as Chaetognaths. This discovery suggests that these relatively simplistic marine arrow worms had ancestors that played a significant predatory role within much more intricate anatomical structures and food webs.

Reconstructing the life of Nektognathus evasmithae. Image credit: Bob Nichols.

“About 15 years ago, a study based on the notable Burgess Shale fossil suggested that Nectochalidosis is a type of cephalopod,” said Jacob Vincer, a paleontologist at the University of Bristol.

“This argument seemed illogical to me as it contradicts much of what I understand about the taxonomy of these organisms.

In the recent research, Dr. Vinther and his team described Nektognathus evasmithae, a newly identified Nectocalid from the Sirius Passett Lagerstätte, dating back 519 million years in North Greenland.

By examining 25 fossil specimens of Nektognathus evasmithae, they successfully positioned the Nectocalid within the Tree of Life.

“We found that remnants of the nervous system manifested as paired mineralized structures, providing insight into these animals’ position in the evolutionary tree,” Dr. Winter remarked.

Nektognathus evasmithae holotype. Image credit: Vinther et al., doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adu6990.

Recently, paleontologists found a fossil from Sirius Passett, which belongs to a different branch of the evolutionary tree—a small group of swimming organisms known as arrow bugs and Chaetognaths.

“These fossils exhibit distinctive traits that set them apart from arrow worms, particularly the abdominal ganglia,” explains Dr. Tae Yoon Park, a paleontologist at the Korean Institute of Polar Research.

The abdominal ganglia consist of large nerve clusters situated above the abdomen in living arrow bugs, typical for this type of creature.

The distinctive anatomical features, coupled with unique preservation conditions, indicate that they may be replaced by phosphate minerals during the decomposition process.

“We now have a compelling piece of evidence to resolve the Nectkalido debate,” Dr. Park stated.

“Nectocaridids share numerous features with other fossils that are also part of the arrow worm lineage.”

“Many of these characteristics may superficially resemble squid and demonstrate a simple adaptation of invertebrates to a more dynamic swimming lifestyle, paralleling how whales and ancient marine reptiles evolved similar traits for their aquatic lifestyles.”

“Nectakalids possess complex camera-like eyes akin to ours,” Dr. Vincer elaborated.

“Contemporary arrow worms have a limited ability to form images, primarily detecting movement in well-lit environments.”

“Thus, the ancestors of arrow worms were indeed sophisticated predators, much like squids that appeared around 400 million years later.”

“Consequently, we can illustrate how arrow worms have a more significant role in the food chain than previously thought.”

“Our fossils are notably larger than the average living arrow worm and likely feature various adaptations for swimming, such as eyes and elongated antennae.

“To further substantiate the carnivorous nature of Nectkalizids, we discovered several specimens containing the remains of a swimming arthropod known as Isoxys in their gastrointestinal tract.

This study was published this week in the journal Advances in Science.

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Jacob Winter et al. 2025. Fossilized abdominal ganglia reveal the affinity of Chaetognaths for Cambrian calizids. Advances in science 11 (30); doi:10.1126/sciadv.adu6990

Source: www.sci.news

Tree Planting Alone Can’t Compensate for Global Fossil Fuel Emissions

Posted on June 20, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Afforestation Initiative in British Columbia, Canada

James McDonald/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Achieving sufficient tree planting to counterbalance the climate effects of fossil fuel combustion is nearly unfeasible. The land required to offset around 182 billion tonnes of carbon contained in the reserves of the world’s leading fossil fuel companies exceeds the available area of North and Central America combined.

In a study, Alain Naef from France’s Essec Business School, along with his team, assessed the economic viability of offsetting the carbon emissions originating from the oil, gas, and coal reserves owned by the top 200 fossil fuel firms.

The research indicates that newly planted trees must cover an area greater than 24.75 million square kilometers, equivalent to all land in North, Central, and South America, to mitigate the effects of burning these fossil fuel reserves.

Such a scale of afforestation is impractical, necessitating significant relocations of communities, agricultural lands, and other existing ecosystems.

“There isn’t enough available land to accommodate the requisite planting needed to offset emissions tied to fossil fuels,” states Rich Collet White, a British energy analyst at Carbon Tracker. “Attempting to achieve such extensive planting could drive food prices up due to farmland being converted to forest, or lead to deforestation elsewhere.”

Simultaneously, the financial implications of implementing such widespread planting initiatives are staggering. The cost to plant trees is approximately $16 per tonne equivalent of carbon offset. At this rate, it was calculated that offsetting emissions from fossil fuel reserves using trees could negate the entire market value of 64% of the largest fossil fuel corporations, excluding the costs associated with land acquisition.

If higher carbon prices highlight the adverse social and economic effects of burning fossil fuels, the results indicate that many companies might face bankruptcy.

Naef and his associates recognize the slim probability of fossil fuel companies opting to voluntarily offset reserve emissions. They assert that their study is more of a thought experiment aimed at indicating why offsets shouldn’t be leveraged to allow the fossil fuel industry to persist. “The crucial takeaway from this paper is that oil and gas should remain untapped underground,” Naef emphasized during a press briefing on June 18th.

Tim Leyden, representing Trillion Trees, a UK-based tree planting initiative, concurs. “Tree planting should not serve as a substitute for the urgent cessation of fossil fuel use nor as a strategy for decarbonizing our economy,” he asserts.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Paleontologists Discover New Biomarkers for Identifying Megafauna Species in Australia’s Fossil Record

Posted on June 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists have discovered peptide markers for three extinct Australian megafauna. This breakthrough facilitates research on creatures such as hippo-sized wombats, colossal kangaroos, and marsupials with enormous claws, aiding our understanding of the series of enigmatic extinctions that took place 50,000 years ago and the potential role of humans in these events.

Palorchestes Azael. Image credit: Nellie Pease/CABAH/CC BY-SA 4.0.

“The geographical distribution and extinction timeline of Australia’s megafauna, along with their interaction with early modern humans, are subjects of intense debate,” commented Professor Katerina Dorca from the University of Vienna.

“The limited fossil finds at various paleontological sites across Australia complicate the testing of hypotheses regarding the extinction of these animals,” added Dr. Kali Peters, Ph.D., of the University of Algarbe.

“Using ZooMS (Zoo departments by mass spectrometry) can aid in increasing the number of identified megafauna fossils, provided that collagen peptide markers for these species are accessible.”

Through the analysis of peptides in collagen samples, researchers can differentiate between various animal species, occasionally even distinguishing among different variants.

Collagen proves to be more resilient than DNA, making this method effective in tropical conditions where DNA may not endure.

However, most reference markers originate from Eurasian species that are not found elsewhere.

This study aims to develop new reference markers tailored for Australian contexts, enhancing the understanding gleaned from the fragmented fossil records of Australia.

“Proteins tend to endure better over extensive time periods and in harsh environments compared to DNA,” noted Dr. Peters.

“Thus, in studying megafauna extinction, proteins might still be preserved even in the absence of DNA.”

The research focused on three species crucial for comprehending megafauna extinction: Zygomaturus trilobus, Palorchestes Azael, and Protemnodon Mamkurra.

Zygomaturus trilobus and Palorchestes Azael belong to a lineage of animals that vanished entirely during the late Quaternary period, while Protemnodon Mamkurra survived long enough to likely coexist with humans arriving in Tasmania.

Scientists previously dated fossilized bones from one species back over 43,000 years.

“Zygomaturus trilobus was among the largest marsupials that ever lived, appearing much like a hippo-sized wombat,” said Professor Douka.

“Protemnodon Mamkurra was a massive, sluggish kangaroo that might have occasionally walked on all fours.”

“Palorchestes Azael was a uniquely shaped marsupial with a distinctive nose and long tongue, powerful forelimbs, and a skull equipped with large claws.”

“If ancient continents connected early modern humans to what we now know as Australia, New Guinea, and Tasmania 55,000 years ago, they would have encountered astonishing creatures.”

The researchers eliminated contaminants and compared peptide markers using reference markers.

The collagen in all three samples was well-preserved, enabling the identification of appropriate peptide markers for each species.

With these markers, paleontologists successfully differentiated Protemnodon from five living genera and one extinct genus of kangaroo.

They could also differentiate Zygomaturus and Palorchestes as these two species couldn’t be distinguished from other large extinct marsupials.

This is common in ZooMS, given that collagen changes accumulate slowly over millions of years of evolution.

Unless further studies enhance specificity, these markers are most effective at identifying bones at the genus level rather than the species level.

Nevertheless, Zoom’s ability to distinguish genera from temperate regions presents opportunities to try and identify bones from tropical regions, where closely related species may feature similar or identical peptide markers, since DNA preservation is rare in these environments.

“The introduction of newly developed collagen peptide markers allows us to identify a multitude of megafauna remains in Australia’s paleontological collections,” stated Dr. Peters.

“Yet, many more species still require characterization through collagen peptide markers.”

“For instance, Diprotodon, the largest marsupial genus ever known, and Thylacoleo, the largest marsupial predator.”

The team’s findings will be published in the journal Frontiers in Mammal Science.

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Kari Peters et al. 2025. Collagen peptide markers from three Australian megafauna species. Front. Mammal. Sci. 4; doi:10.3389/fmamm.2025.1564287

Source: www.sci.news

Fossil Trucks Discovered in Australia Extend Reptile Origins by 35 Million Years

Posted on May 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists have uncovered fossilized tracks of reptile-like creatures from the early Carboniferous Tonan period, approximately 355 million years ago, within the snow plain formation in Victoria, Australia. This discovery indicates that such animals originated from Gondwana, where Australia was centrally located.

Artist’s impression of early reptile track makers from 355 million years ago. Image credit: Martin Ambrozik.

Tetrapods evolved from a group of fish that transitioned from aquatic to terrestrial life around 390 million years ago during the Devonian period.

These ancestral beings are the forebears of all modern vertebrates inhabiting land, including amphibians and various mammals, reptiles, and birds.

The oldest known amniotic fossils previously discovered date back to the late Carboniferous period, roughly 320 million years ago.

The findings from this 355 million-year-old snow plains slab, found by two amateur paleontologists, reveal that reptiles were already present 35 million years earlier than previously thought, at the dawn of the Carboniferous.

“Upon recognizing this, I understood that we had the oldest evidence globally of animals akin to reptiles, pushing back the evolutionary record by at least 35 million years beyond prior findings in the Northern Hemisphere,” stated Professor John Long from Flinders University.

“The fossilized tracks uncovered in the Mansfield region of northern Victoria, Australia, were created by creatures resembling small, agile, Goanna-like animals.”

A slab containing 355 million-year-old tracks from Australia’s Snowy Plains formation. Image credit: Long et al., doi: 10.1038/s41586-025-08884-5.

“When I initially encountered this specimen, I was astounded. Just seconds later, I noticed that the nail impressions were remarkably preserved,” said Dr. Grzegorz Niedwiedzki, a researcher at Uppsala University.

“Nails are characteristic of all early amniotic species but are absent in other quadruped lineages,” added Per Erik Ahlberg, a professor at Uppsala University.

“The combination of nail marks and foot shapes suggests that the track maker was a primitive reptile.”

According to the research team, this discovery profoundly impacts the understanding of early tetrapod evolution.

Although all stem tetrapods and stem amniotes must have emerged during the Devonian period, evidence suggests that tetrapod evolution progressed significantly faster than previously believed, with far fewer Devonian tetrapods than assumed.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jj7bttru0l8

“Skeletons can reveal much about an animal’s capabilities, but trackways capture behavior and illustrate how the animal functioned,” explained Dr. Alice Clement from Flinders University.

“This new fossilized trackway we examined dates from the early Carboniferous, making accurate age identification crucial. We achieved this by comparing the various fish fauna in these rocks to similar morphotypes found in well-dated sedimentary layers from across the globe, providing a timeline constraint of approximately 10 million years.”

“This finding redefines a segment of evolutionary history,” remarked Dr. Gillian Garvey from La Trobe University.

“Much has occurred in Australia and Gondwana, indicating that the narrative is still unfolding.”

The findings are detailed in a paper published in the journal Nature.

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Ja Long et al. Early amniote tracks revise the timeline of tetrapod evolution. Nature published online on May 14th, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41586-025-08884-5

Source: www.sci.news