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Fossilised Mesolimulus
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Fossilised Mesolimulus
This fossil, Mesolimulus, a horseshoe crab, is an impressive 40 centimetres long. Preserved in the fine mud of a lagoon in Solenhofen, Germany, about 150 million years ago
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Arthropod Arthropoda Chelicerata Chelicerate Crab Crustacea Crustacean Decapod Decapoda Fossil Fossilised Horseshoe Jurassic Limulus Malacostraca Mesozoic Oldest Horseshoe Crab Invertebrata Merostomata
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this photograph, the ancient and majestic form of a Mesolimulus, a horseshoe crab, is beautifully preserved in the fine mud of a Jurassic-era lagoon in Solenhofen, Germany. Dating back approximately 150 million years, this impressive invertebrate measures an impressive 40 centimeters in length. Belonging to the class Merostomata and order Decapoda within the phylum Arthropoda, this ancient crustacean is a member of the Limulidae family, commonly known as horseshoe crabs. The Mesolimulus, an arthropod and chelicerate, is considered one of the oldest known living lineages of marine arthropods, with its origins tracing back to the early Carboniferous period. This ancient creature is not only a testament to the rich biodiversity of the Mesozoic era but also a reminder of the intricate and complex ecosystems that existed long before our time. The horseshoe crab's distinctive horseshoe-shaped body and ten eyes, including two large compound eyes and several smaller simple eyes, make it a unique and fascinating creature. This ancient being was likely an essential part of the daytime ecosystem in its time, playing a crucial role in the food chain as both a predator and a prey species. The intricate details of the Mesolimulus's exoskeleton, visible in the photograph, provide a glimpse into the complex anatomy of this ancient invertebrate. The fossil's preservation in the fine mud of the lagoon has allowed us to study and appreciate the beauty and intricacy of this remarkable creature from the past. This Mesolimulus fossil is not only a scientific treasure but also a stunning reminder of the rich history and diversity of life on Earth.
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