Researchers have discovered the fossil of a giant terror beast worm, named Timorebestia, in North Greenland, which ruled the Earth 518 million years ago. Measuring about 30 centimeters long, it was one of the largest swimming animals of its time and a dominant predator in the oceans. The worm's reign set the stage for evolutionary changes, reshuffling the food chain and dominance hierarchy during the Cambrian Explosion, ultimately leading to the diversification of the ocean ecosystem.
Fossils of "terror worms" called Timorebestia, which roamed the oceans over 500 million years ago, have been discovered in Northern Greenland. These ancient predators, resembling modern arrow worms, were likely dominant ocean predators at the time, feeding on common arthropods. The well-preserved fossils are providing unprecedented insights into their muscle anatomy, nervous systems, and digestive systems, shedding light on their role in the ancient ecosystem and contributing to our understanding of jawed predator evolution.
Scientists have discovered fossils of a giant carnivorous worm, Timorebestia koprii, in northern Greenland, which thrived during the Early Cambrian period over 518 million years ago. These 'terror beasts' were top predators of their time, reaching over 30 centimeters in length, and are related to modern-day arrow worms. The findings from the Sirius Passet fossil locality provide new insights into ancient ocean ecosystems and the evolution of carnivorous animals. The research, which also uncovered well-preserved anatomical details like digestive and nervous systems, was published in the journal Science Advances.
Scientists have discovered fossils of giant predatory worms, named Timorebestia, in North Greenland, dating back 518 million years to the Early Cambrian period. These worms, which could grow up to 30 centimeters long, were top predators of their time, similar to the role of sharks and seals in modern oceans. The findings, which include details of their anatomy and evidence of their diet, provide new insights into ancient marine ecosystems and the evolution of predatory species. The study has been published in Science Advances.
