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.