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Ancient Animals Navigated Seafloor 550 Million Years Ago

7/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A groundbreaking study by Dr. Zekun Wang uncovers that ancient animals navigated the seafloor with intention 550 million years ago, well before the Cambrian Explosion. By examining 170 trace fossils, researchers reveal a gradual evolution in mobility and body structure, hinting at the early development of complex life that transformed ecosystems long before hard-shelled creatures appeared.

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Story summary

A groundbreaking study by Dr. Zekun Wang uncovers that ancient animals navigated the seafloor with intention 550 million years ago, well before the Cambrian Explosion. By examining 170 trace fossils, researchers reveal a gradual evolution in mobility and body structure, hinting at the early development of complex life that transformed ecosystems long before hard-shelled creatures appeared.