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7mo ago

Scientists Unveil the Head of Earth's Largest Arthropod

New fossil discoveries reveal the head structure of Arthropleura, a massive prehistoric arthropod, offering insights into its anatomy and evolutionary lineage.

An undated handout image shows a reconstruction of a juvenile Arthropleura, integrating newly observed head anatomical features. The image also has (A) Dorsal view; (B) Ventral view; (C) Back view; and (D) Frontal view. Left maxillae were removed on (B) to better illustrate the mandible below. The red circle on (C) indicates the position of the digestive tract. Lheritier et al., Sci. Adv. 10, eadp6362 (2024)/Handout via REUTERS
The fossil of a juvenile Arthropleura from Montceau-les-Mines, France, inside its nodule, is seen in this undated photograph. This fossil is dated from during the Carboniferous period (305 million years ago). Lheritier et al., Sci. Adv. 10, eadp6362 (2024)/Handout via REUTERS
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Overview

  • Arthropleura was a giant arthropod that lived approximately 300 million years ago, reaching lengths of up to 9 feet.
  • Researchers used advanced imaging techniques to study well-preserved juvenile fossils found in France, reconstructing the creature's head for the first time.
  • The head features a combination of millipede and centipede characteristics, with stalked eyes and mandibles suited for grinding vegetation.
  • The study suggests Arthropleura's evolutionary position as a close relative of both millipedes and centipedes, providing new insights into myriapod evolution.
  • Despite its size, Arthropleura's diet likely consisted of detritus, and it may have had a semi-aquatic lifestyle, as indicated by its anatomical features.