Ancient brittle star fossils unearthed in South Africa reveal Gondwana's secrets

Paleontologists have discovered the oldest known samples of brittle stars from the supercontinent Gondwana at a dig site in South Africa. The samples, found in near-perfect condition, include a new species named Krommaster spinosus. These molds, approximately 410 million years old, provide valuable insights into the diversification of brittle stars and their historical coexistence with modern species. The findings expand our understanding of ancient marine ecosystems and the evolution of marine life on Gondwana.