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Exceptionally Preserved Trilobite Fossils Unveil Unseen Anatomy

Volcanic ash in Morocco reveals 3D details of trilobites' soft tissues, offering new insights into their biology and evolution.

  • The fossils, over 500 million years old, were found in the High Atlas of Morocco.
  • These trilobites were preserved in volcanic ash, similar to the preservation seen in Pompeii.
  • CT scans revealed previously unseen anatomical features, including digestive systems and mouthparts.
  • The discovery challenges previous assumptions about trilobite anatomy and feeding mechanisms.
  • Researchers suggest volcanic ash deposits could be a valuable source for finding exceptionally preserved fossils.
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