Discovery of Oldest Swimming Jellyfish Reveals Ancient Evolutionary History

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Researchers have uncovered the oldest examples of swimming jellyfish, dating back 505 million years, within the Canadian Rockies. The fossils were found at the renowned Burgess Shale fossil site, with a total of 182 fossils discovered.

These fossils belong to a previously unknown species of jellyfish called Burgessomedusa phasmiformis, shedding light on just how evolved these creatures were millions of years ago. The fossils are exceptionally well-preserved, which is remarkable considering that jellyfish are made up of 95% water. The jellyfish measure about 8 inches (20 centimeters) in length.

The findings of this groundbreaking discovery were detailed in a study published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B.

Jellyfish are part of the medusozoans group, which includes animals with an umbrella-shaped body and stinging tentacles, similar to the mythical Medusa. Medusozoans, corals, and sea anemones fall under the larger group called Cnidaria, one of the oldest groups of animals on Earth.

Cnidarians can take on different body forms within their life cycle, including a polyp shape that is usually attached to the seafloor. Medusozoans, on the other hand, take their name from the medusa form, which is a bell or saucer-shaped body. They begin as polyps and can transform into medusas, some of which have the ability to freely swim. Modern box jellies, hydroids, stalked jellyfish, and true jellyfish are all examples of medusozoans.

The multitude of Burgessomedusa phasmiformis fossils found at the site provides evidence that large, swimming bell-shaped jellyfish evolved over 500 million years ago. This discovery confirms that jellyfish and their relatives were swimming in Earth’s oceans during the Cambrian period.

While fossilized polyps have been found dating back 560 million years, tracing the origins of free-swimming jellyfish has proven more challenging for researchers. Many of the fossils were initially collected in the 1980s and 1990s during excavations led by Desmond Collins, the former curator of invertebrate paleontology at the Royal Ontario Museum.

The Burgess Shale, where these fossils were discovered, is a treasure trove of well-preserved fossils, including those of soft-bodied animals. The site, which was first discovered in 1909, offers detailed imprints and outlines of the soft tissue and internal anatomy of delicate sea creatures, a rarity in the fossil record.

The Burgess Shale’s exceptional preservation is attributed to an underwater avalanche of fine silt and mud that quickly trapped a large group of animals, showcasing the diversity of life in Earth’s oceans at that time. The site contains specimens of now-extinct creatures that have no relation to any current life-forms on Earth. These animals became laminated between layers of mud, which fossilized over time.

The intricate Burgessomedusa phasmiformis fossils are now on display at the Royal Ontario Museum as part of its Burgess Shale collection. As researchers continue to study fossils from the Burgess Shale, they uncover more about the complexity of the ancient food chain. Initially, scientists believed that large swimming arthropods, like the Anomalocaris, were the main predators. However, Burgessomedusa, with its 90 finger-like tentacles, may have also been a formidable marine predator.

Dr. Jean-Bernard Caron, the Richard Ivey Curator of Invertebrate Palaeontology at the Royal Ontario Museum, expressed his excitement about the discovery, stating, “Finding such incredibly delicate animals preserved in rock layers on top of these mountains is such a wondrous discovery. Burgessomedusa adds to the complexity of Cambrian food webs, and like Anomalocaris, these jellyfish were efficient swimming predators. This adds yet another remarkable lineage of animals that the Burgess Shale has preserved, chronicling the evolution of life on Earth.”

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How do the well-preserved fossils of Burgessomedusa phasmiformis contribute to our understanding of the evolution and history of jellyfish?

Of ancient and unique species. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Yoho National Park, British Columbia, Canada.

The discovery of Burgessomedusa phasmiformis provides valuable insights into the evolution and history of jellyfish. These fossils help scientists understand how these creatures evolved and adapted over millions of years.

Jellyfish are fascinating organisms that have been present on Earth for hundreds of millions of years. They are also considered important indicators of the health of marine ecosystems. Understanding their past can help researchers better understand their present and future.

The Wonder Theory science newsletter aims to bring these exciting discoveries and scientific advancements to its readers. By exploring the universe and learning about the wonders of science, readers can expand their knowledge and appreciation for the world around them.

In conclusion, the recent discovery of the oldest examples of swimming jellyfish in the Canadian Rockies is truly remarkable. These well-preserved fossils shed light on the evolution of jellyfish and their relatives, providing valuable insights into Earth’s ancient past. This groundbreaking discovery will undoubtedly contribute to our understanding of these fascinating creatures and their place in the history of life on Earth.