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Fossil Discovery Extends Timeline for Complex Life by 4 Million Years

4/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

A discovery in southwestern China extends the timeline for complex life by at least four million years.
Fossils from the Ediacaran Period date between 554 and 539 million years ago and show a diverse animal community.
Researchers uncovered more than 700 fossils, including specimens with bilateral symmetry and complex feeding structures.
The findings challenge the Cambrian explosion view and illuminate the evolution toward modern species, including humans.

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Story summary

A discovery in southwestern China extends the timeline for complex life by at least four million years.
Fossils from the Ediacaran Period date between 554 and 539 million years ago and show a diverse animal community.
Researchers uncovered more than 700 fossils, including specimens with bilateral symmetry and complex feeding structures.
The findings challenge the Cambrian explosion view and illuminate the evolution toward modern species, including humans.