Researchers have made an exciting new discovery at the Burgess Shale fossil site in the Canadian Rockies, finding the oldest examples of swimming jellyfish. The fossils, estimated to be 505 million years old, belong to a previously unknown species called Burgessomedusa phasmiformis.
What makes this discovery even more remarkable is that jellyfish are made up of 95% water, making the preservation of these fossils exceptionally rare. The fossils measure about 8 inches in length and provide valuable insights into the evolution of jellyfish.
The findings were recently published in the prestigious journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B. According to the study, jellyfish belong to the larger group Cnidaria, which includes medusozoans, corals, and sea anemones. Medusozoans, like jellyfish, possess an umbrella-shaped body and stinging tentacles.
The discovery of Burgessomedusa phasmiformis fossils suggests that large, swimming bell-shaped jellyfish evolved more than 500 million years ago. This finding sheds light on the early stages of jellyfish evolution and further deepens our understanding of life’s development on Earth.
The Burgess Shale fossil site has long been known for its impressive collection of well-preserved fossils, particularly those of soft-bodied animals. The site was originally discovered in 1909 and contains fossils dating back 508 million years.
As a result of this remarkable discovery, the Burgessomedusa phasmiformis fossils are now on display at the Royal Ontario Museum. Visitors can marvel at these ancient creatures that were once formidable marine predators.
Not only is this discovery significant in terms of paleontology, but it also reveals more about the complex ancient food chain. It’s fascinating to contemplate the role jellyfish played in the ecosystem millions of years ago.
This groundbreaking research adds another piece to the puzzle of the evolution of life on Earth, as preserved in the Burgess Shale. The Burgessomedusa phasmiformis fossils provide invaluable insights into the early history of jellyfish and their role in shaping the marine environment. Further exploration of the Burgess Shale can unlock even more secrets from our planet’s distant past.