Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery about Arthropleura, a massive insect-like creature that lived on Earth 340 million years ago. For centuries, researchers were puzzled by the size and nature of this ancient arthropod. However, the mystery began to unravel when juvenile fossils were found in a French coal field back in the 1980s.
By using advanced CT scanning technology, scientists were able to construct a model of Arthropleura’s head without causing any harm to the delicate fossils. The scans unveiled a circular head with two short, bell-shaped antennae and two prominent eyes resembling those of crabs. They also identified a small mouth, which was likely used for feeding on leaves and bark. Furthermore, it was confirmed that Arthropleura molted its exoskeleton through an opening in its head, a common trait among arthropods.
Despite its enormous size, Arthropleura most likely survived on a diet of vegetation from the ancient forests it inhabited. One of the study’s co-authors, Mickael Lheritier, described the creature as having the body of a millipede but the head of a centipede. This unique combination sheds light on the evolutionary history of these fascinating creatures.
Paleobiologist James Lamsdell, who was not part of the research team, expressed excitement about finally getting a glimpse of Arthropleura’s head. He explained how delicate fossils can be easily damaged during excavation, making it challenging to uncover important details about ancient organisms.
Arthropleura is considered an ancestor of modern centipedes and millipedes, belonging to the vast group of arthropods that includes insects, crustaceans like crabs, and arachnids such as spiders and scorpions. Since the late 1800s, scientists have been diligently studying Arthropleura remains, gradually piecing together the puzzle of its existence and significance in the ancient world.
This recent discovery provides valuable insights into the biology and behavior of Arthropleura, offering a glimpse into the distant past when these giant creatures roamed the Earth. The meticulous work of researchers in studying and reconstructing the anatomy of Arthropleura helps us better understand the evolutionary history of arthropods and their place in the ecosystem. By combining cutting-edge technology with centuries-old fossils, scientists continue to unlock the secrets of prehistoric life on our planet.
