500-million-year-old 'giant' predator worms discovered in Greenland
A pathbreaking discovery in Greenland has revealed fossils of 500-million-year-old predator worms, known as Timorebestia or "terror beasts." Probably some of the first carnivorous animals ever, these ancient creatures shed light on the evolution of jawed predators and their relation to prehistoric organisms. The Timorebestia, which could grow over 30cm long, were considered giants in the Early Cambrian era.
Timorebestia's features and size
A recent study published in Science Advances highlights the unique features of these giant worms, including fins along their bodies, distinct heads with long antennae, and powerful jaw structures. University of Bristol's Dr. Jakob Vinther told Wion that Timorebestia occupied a high position in the food chain. Within the fossilized digestive system of Timorebestia, the researchers discovered remnants of a swimming arthropod called Isoxys, suggesting that these spiny animals were their main source of food.
Diet and connection to modern arrow worms
Timorebestia is closely related to modern arrow worms, which are small predators that primarily feed on tiny zooplankton. Scientists are able to study the digestive systems, muscular structures, and neurological systems of these archaic beings in great detail, thanks to the exceptional preservation of the fossils found in Sirius Passet. Tae Yoon Park from the Korean Polar Research Institute told Wion, "The preservation of these unique ventral ganglia gives us a great deal more confidence in this hypothesis."
Fossils reveal anatomical details and evolutionary connections
Oxford University's Luke Parry underlined the importance of Timorebestia in comprehending the evolution of arrow worms. He clarified that Timorebestia featured jaws inside its head, but modern arrow worms have bristles on the external region of their heads to help them catch prey. This fascinating discovery sheds light on the development of predatory animals and provides a glimpse into the ancient world's underwater ecosystems.
Other unusual creatures discovered recently
On the slopes of Serra da Neve, Angola's second-tallest mountain, a peculiar species of legless lizard was discovered slithering around in 2023. Called skinks, they resemble snakes and feature moveable eyelids. The largest penguin to have ever lived on Earth, Kumimanu fordycei, was one of the year's most fascinating discoveries. The estimated weight of the flightless birds, who lived 60 million years ago, was 150 kilograms (or 330 pounds).
