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Ancient 'False Snake' Fossil Reveals Evolutionary Secrets

10/10/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Researchers have identified a 167-million-year-old species nicknamed the "false snake of Elgol."
The fossil reveals a lizardlike body with four limbs and a short torso.
It also features snakelike jaws and curved teeth similar to those of pythons.
Scientists say these traits may indicate an early ancestor of both snakes and lizards.

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Story summary

Researchers have identified a 167-million-year-old species nicknamed the "false snake of Elgol."
The fossil reveals a lizardlike body with four limbs and a short torso.
It also features snakelike jaws and curved teeth similar to those of pythons.
Scientists say these traits may indicate an early ancestor of both snakes and lizards.