New Study Reveals Evolutionary Secrets of Ancient Taco-Shaped Creature

Odaraia, a Cambrian period marine organism, offers insights into the early development of mandibulates, a highly successful group of arthropods.

Odaraia fossils, discovered over 100 years ago, have been reanalyzed to reveal mandibles, classifying it as one of the earliest mandibulates.
Researchers believe Odaraia swam upside down, using spines on its legs to capture prey, similar to a fishing net.
The Burgess Shale formation in British Columbia is the exclusive site where Odaraia fossils have been found.
Mandibulates, which include insects and crustaceans, now represent over half of all species on Earth.
The study enhances understanding of Cambrian ecosystems and the evolutionary success of mandibulates.