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Ancient Ant Fossil Reshapes South America's Evolution Timeline

4/29/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Brazilian researchers have unearthed a remarkable 113-million-year-old ant fossil, dubbed Vulcanidris cratensis, in the Crato Formation. This groundbreaking discovery pushes back the ant timeline in South America by over 60 million years. The fossil showcases extraordinary scythe-like jaws, hinting at sophisticated predatory skills during the age of dinosaurs.

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Story summary

Brazilian researchers have unearthed a remarkable 113-million-year-old ant fossil, dubbed Vulcanidris cratensis, in the Crato Formation. This groundbreaking discovery pushes back the ant timeline in South America by over 60 million years. The fossil showcases extraordinary scythe-like jaws, hinting at sophisticated predatory skills during the age of dinosaurs.