Biologia furnicilor
Oamenii de știință descoperă un fosil de furnică vechi de 113 milioane de ani care rescrie evoluția
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Descoperire revoluționară: Oamenii de știință dezvăluie un fosil de furnică vechi de 113 milioane de ani care rescrie evoluția
113-Million-Year-Old Ant Fossil Provides Insights into Evolution
Brazilian researchers have uncovered the world’s oldest known ant fossil, estimated to be 113 million years old. This extraordinary find sheds new light on the evolution of ants, revealing a species from an extinct group called “hell ants,” closely related to the wasp-like ancestors of modern ants. Preserved in limestone from Brazil’s Crato Formation, this fossil significantly extends our understanding of ant history.
Micro-Computed Tomography Reveals Stunning Anatomical Features
Using tomografie microcomputată, the scientists created a detailed 3D image of the fossil, uncovering hidden anatomical features. One standout trait is the ant’s scythe-like mandibles, which impaled prey—unlike modern ants, which use side-grasping mandibles to catch their food.
Ancient Predator That Lived Alongside Dinosaurs
This fossil is part of the extinct subfamily Haidomyrmecinae, which thrived during the Cretaceous period, coexisting with dinosaurs. Named Vulcanidris cratensis, the discovery predates earlier hell ant fossils found in amber from Myanmar and France, reinforcing the species’ widespread presence across continents.
A Discovery That Changes Everything About Prehistoric Insect Evolution
Beyond adding to scientific knowledge, the fossil highlights the diversity of life in prehistoric times. Insects such as hell ants played remarkable roles alongside dinosaurs, exhibiting specialized behaviors and unique anatomies. Researchers hope future discoveries will further connect the evolutionary puzzle of ants.
To know more about ant history, you can read this article sau watch this video.
