Tag

Turtle

All articles tagged with #turtle

science1 year ago

"Stephen King Character Inspires Name for Newly Discovered Giant Turtle Fossil"

Researchers in Brazil have discovered a giant freshwater turtle fossil, naming it Peltocephalus maturin after a character in Stephen King's novels. The fossil, one of the largest freshwater turtles ever found, measured about 180 cm in length, far surpassing the size of today's freshwater turtles. The discovery has sparked interest in understanding the ancient fauna of the Amazon rainforest and the potential coexistence of giant turtles with early human populations.

animals1 year ago

"Dinosaur-like Alligator Snapping Turtle Discovered in Cumbria"

A "dangerous" alligator snapping turtle, native to Florida, was found in Cumbria and named "Fluffy" by vets. The reptile, known for its strong jaw capable of biting through bone, was likely abandoned by an exotic pet owner. Unable to determine its gender, the turtle will be relocated to a wildlife centre in Cornwall. Alligator snapping turtles are invasive and can grow up to 100cm long, weighing up to 90kg, posing a threat to local wildlife.

science-and-nature2 years ago

Ancient DNA Traces Found in 6-Million-Year-Old Turtle Shell

Traces of ancient DNA have potentially been found within a 6-million-year-old turtle shell fossil discovered in Panama. The fossil belongs to an extinct species of turtle, and the presence of genetic material within the preserved bone cells suggests that DNA may be able to last much longer than previously thought. While further testing is needed to confirm the presence of DNA, this finding challenges traditional paradigms of biomolecular preservation and could provide valuable insights into the history and evolution of sea turtles.

science2 years ago

Ancient DNA Found Preserved Inside Turtle Shell After 6 Million Years

Paleontologists studying a fossilized sea turtle shell from the Miocene Epoch have discovered preserved bone cells that may contain ancient DNA. Using a stain called DAPI, the researchers observed nucleus-like structures in the bone cells that reacted to the stain, potentially indicating the presence of DNA. However, this is not definitive proof of ancient DNA, as the molecule rapidly degrades over time. While the oldest DNA sequenced so far is from million-year-old mammoth teeth, the researchers believe further analysis is needed to confirm the presence of ancient DNA in the turtle shell.

paleontology2 years ago

Ancient Side-Necked Turtle Unearthed in UK, Dating Back 127 Million Years

The first side-necked turtle fossil has been discovered in the UK on the Isle of Wight, dating back 127 million years. Using radiometric dating and CT scanning techniques, researchers from the University of Portsmouth confirmed its age and examined its internal structure. The fossil, found by an amateur collector, represents the earliest known instance of a side-necked turtle in the UK and provides valuable insights into the ancient fauna of the region.

odd-news2 years ago

Turtle crossing causes chaos on Florida highway

A man in Florida caused a multi-car crash on a busy highway when he stopped his truck in the fast lane to save a massive snapping turtle trying to cross the road. The incident was caught on dashcam video from an 18-wheeler. While nobody was seriously injured, there were multiple minor injuries and significant damage done to some of the cars. The Walton County Sheriff's Office posted the video to its Facebook page with a warning not to stop in the middle of the road, even to protect Florida's wildlife.

accidents2 years ago

Turtle crossing causes multi-vehicle crash on Florida highway.

A driver in Florida stopped in the middle of a busy highway for a turtle crossing the road, causing a chain-reaction crash involving multiple vehicles. While the driver did not have ill intentions, officials warned that trying to avoid or stop for an animal on a busy roadway can cause life-threatening injuries to motorists. No serious injuries were reported in the crash, and the turtle also survived and is living "happily ever after" in a pond.

accidents2 years ago

Turtle crossing causes major crash on Florida highway

A driver in Florida's Panhandle caused a chain-reaction crash when he stopped to let a turtle cross the road. No serious injuries were reported in the wreck that involved several vehicles, including a semi-truck. The turtle survived and is now "living happily ever after in a pond where he will (hopefully) spend the rest of his days avoiding pavement of any kind." The department advised against causing a road obstruction because of a reptilian obstruction, as it can cause life-threatening injuries.