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New Findings Push Cambrian Explosion Timeline Back 545 Million Years

7/7/2025

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Summary

Story summary

New research is shaking up our understanding of the Cambrian explosion, revealing it may have started around 545 million years ago—earlier than once believed. By examining trace fossils, scientists uncovered signs of complex, mobile creatures predating the traditional timeline, potentially transforming our perspective on the evolution from soft-bodied to hard-bodied life forms.

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Story summary

New research is shaking up our understanding of the Cambrian explosion, revealing it may have started around 545 million years ago—earlier than once believed. By examining trace fossils, scientists uncovered signs of complex, mobile creatures predating the traditional timeline, potentially transforming our perspective on the evolution from soft-bodied to hard-bodied life forms.