Ancient Reptile Fossil Uncovers Parasite Infestation

Scientists have discovered evidence of parasitic infection in a reptile that lived during the Triassic Period, around 252 million to 201 million years ago. The parasites were found in a coprolite, or fossilized feces, from a phytosaur, a reptilian carnivore resembling modern crocodiles. The coprolite contained at least five different types of parasites, including nematodes. This finding provides insights into ancient parasite-host relationships and suggests that parasites may have been inside prey animals before being eaten, shedding light on how past ecosystems were connected and how they affected prehistoric animals.