Recently, a research team has identified a new species that could potentially shed light on the evolution of prehistoric sea monsters. The newly discovered species, dubbed Nectocaris pteryx, is an ancestor of modern cephalopods – the group of mollusks that includes octopuses, squids, and cuttlefish – and is the oldest of its kind to be found to date.
Nectocaris pteryx lived approximately 505 million years ago, during the Cambrian period, when life in oceans was beginning to rapidly diversify. Its fossilized remains were discovered in one of the most fossil-rich areas in the world, the Canadian Rockies, and are some of the most well-preserved specimens from the era.
The creature had a unique body shape, boasting two symmetrical fins along its sides, each of which featured five lobes. It also had two grasping appendages that protruded from its head to capture prey, and two tiny eyes – a feature lacking in modern squids and octopuses. Scientists believe that these characteristics may point to an earlier form of locomotion, as well as a more complex form of vision.
The discovery of Nectocaris pteryx adds yet another species to the tree of life, and will provide valuable new insights into the evolution of marine creatures. This new species is an example of the types of extraordinary life forms that lived in the oceans millions of years ago and may help scientists understand how these creatures adapted to survive over time. Furthermore, its remains could potentially increase our knowledge about the anatomy and behavior of ancient sea monsters.
